AN EXAMINATION OF NIGHT SCENE DEVELOPMENT IN THE NEW DOWNTOWN

Abstract

A vibrant night scene is important to a country to cater to the welfare of the people taking into consideration the higher quality-of-life expectations, to increase its attractiveness in attracting tourists, and also to ensure land is fully utilized. This study aims to examine the areas for night scene development in the new Singapore downtown. It analyzes the factors contributing to the vibrancy of the night scene. Two case studies are carried out on Taipei City and Bangkok to analyze the factors contributing to their successful night scene. A SWOT analysis is then carried out on the Singapore downtown to determine its strengths and weakness and to see if there is room for improvement. Finally, to better understand the demand of residents for night scene features, a questionnaire is done. The case studies reveal that having extended hours for shops and eateries are the main contributors to their successful night scene development. This is apparent in the popularity of their night markets. The SWOT analysis shows the vital weaknesses in Singapore: short operating hours, lack of eateries during the night, and an over-emphasis to pubs, discotheques and karaoke. From the questionnaire, the majority also felt that the operating hours were too limited. Furthermore, the main demand for a brightly lit city with 24-hour operational "all-in-one" hubs and places where people can look at the stars and moon with an atmosphere are not met. In conclusion, recommendations, mainly for night markets, extended operating hours and better modes of transport, to create the vibrancy of the night scene are suggested.