PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN SINGAPORE: A CASE STUDY OF THE RAIL CORRIDOR

Abstract

While Singapore’s success in its implementation of urban policies has been traditionally attributed to strong, state-led planning, the recent public debates over the development of places such as the Rail Corridor and Bukit Brown Cemetery have indicated an increased demand for civic participation within the planning process in Singapore. This dissertation thus seeks to explore the reasons for the newfound motivations for public participation in the planning of the Rail Corridor, the work of the planning authorities in accommodating these demands, as well as the implications of new participatory processes for planning in Singapore. Public participation in Singapore was found to be largely motivated by a need to learn of local plans as well as to contribute knowledge of local spaces, with the need for preservation of recreational spaces and environmental conservation serving only as secondary motivations. The recognition of a need to democratise administrative processes was still low. Meanwhile, the planning authorities continue to enjoy a significant level of legitimacy, with high satisfaction levels and ranking highest amongst other bodies in terms of influence in an idealised scenario. Demands for participation was found to be most prominent amongst younger sections of the resident population. It is recommended that the URA continues to expand participatory process, especially in situations where access to facilities may be disrupted, to give the authority greeter buy-in for future planning projects. Where possible, engagement processes with younger sections of the population should be expanded.