EVALUATION OF OPEN SPACES IN NEIGHBOURHOODS: IS THERE AN OPTIMAL SIZE?

Abstract

This research attempts to analyse, in terms of theory and practice, the issue of open spaces in Singapore public housing neighbourhoods. It is an exploratory study on size as a factor in residents' satisfaction with the precinct open space. Using data attained from residents within the study precinct open space, this research examines the questions: Is size a consideration in residents' decision to use the open space? Does size play a role in determining end-user's satisfaction? Are precinct gardens in Punggol new town of optimal size? With precinct gardens being the most common provision of open spaces for the majority of Singapore's population, this study will be informative towards what size is considered optimal. This research found that larger open spaces tend to attract more people to use open spaces and also longer time spent. It also found that Punggol Cove precinct garden is of optimal size to its users.