AN EXAMINATION OF THE CHANGING IDEOLOGY AND ROLES OF PLANNERS IN THE CASE OF MARINA BAY

Abstract

Marina Bay is Singapore largest and most ambitious urban transformation project. As Singapore pursues to be global city that is distinctive and attractive, there lays a need to enhance both the hardware and software of the country. In the planning of Marina Bay, the Urban Redevelopment Authority plays a vital role as the place manager. Most studies have provided the origins and scope of place management in different time periods and context. Few studies have been done on the results and performance of place management efforts. As such, this study seeks to discuss, analyse and evaluate the transformation of Marina Bay from a piece of barren land, the evolving planning ideology, place management efforts and satisfaction level of visitors towards Marina Bay. The transformation of Marina Bay was the result of comprehensive land use planning that began 30 years and the collaborative efforts between the various government agencies and private sectors. In-depth interviews with 5 interviewees shed light on details with regard to the planning process and the changing planning ideology towards flexibility. The public sector worked together to put the infrastructure and amenities in place while the private sector provided the funding to erect developments. Also, URA was proactive in marketing the real estate opportunities within the downtown to attract international investors. The survey conducted showed that the place management of Marina Bay has resulted in a satisfactory response amongst visitors. Therefore, it can be concluded that such collaborative and place-making efforts with the stakeholders could be extended to more regions in Singapore.