USERS PERCEPTION OF PUBLIC SPACES IN CBD

Abstract

In Singapore, the society has become more affluent and people are often eager to search for avenues where they can mitigate their stressfulness from their daily routines. Public spaces play a critical role in providing opportunities for people to relax and have social interaction. The presence of public spaces is even more essential to city dwellers who hang around or work in hectic city centre environment especially the Central Business District (CBD). The objectives of this study aim to investigate the factors affecting the utilisation of public spaces and the users' satisfaction level with the current provision of spaces. The user's opinions towards the presence of commerce activities in public spaces are also solicited. Lastly, the study is concluded with recommendations to improve the existing public spaces and if possible, to create successful public spaces. Research has shown that factors such as physical access, safety, aesthetical appeal, comfortable and sufficient seating, shade, friendliness and lastly, freedom of action are relatively important in affecting the usage of public spaces. Respondents are rather satisfied with the accessibility and comfort of the three public spaces under study. However, there is a need to have more activities in these places to enhance social interaction among people. This coincides with the findings of most respondents prefer to see commerce activities in public spaces. Overall, the study has helped to provide a comprehensive understanding of the various aspects pertaining to the user's usage of public spaces in the CBD.