Next stop: draft plans by five regions

The review saw a second round of consultation from February to August 2003. Relevant ideas and proposals from the Parks & Waterbodies and Identity Plans were incorporated in the draft Master Plan 2003, which was presented by five regions for further public feedback. These draft plans attracted more than 50,000 people, from Members of Parliament, Mayors and Advisers of various constituencies, to grassroots leaders, real estate developers, professionals and members of the public. Careful study was made of 312 feedback received and each was replied to within three weeks after the end of each regional exhibition. Majority of the public shared their views about parks and park connectors, community and recreational facilities, and improving public transportation network and services. The review has since been completed with the gazette of the Master Plan 2003 taking place on 10 December last year.

Consultation reached a high note

The two-year review process has heralded a new era in public consultation. Calvin Ho, 29, professional, described the consultation process as “impressive, commendable and reflective of progressiveness, and accountability”. The record-high visitorship at the exhibitions, overwhelming response and support for the plans has shown that the public has deep interest in playing a part in planning for Singapore’s development.

Not just a colourful map

So with all of the talk about the Master Plan, what exactly does it do and what is so important about it?

It is more than a fancy map splashed with various colours. By showing the detailed land use plan for every plot of land in Singapore through the Master Plan, developers, home-owners, indeed anyone, can be certain of the kinds of developments coming up in each neighbourhood in the next 10 to 15 years.



For example, a home-owner who is thinking of buying a flat in Sembawang can first check the Master Plan 2003 for the North Region for hospitals, schools, parks, transport networks and other community facilities planned for the neighbourhood in the near future. He can also check the land uses surrounding the specific location of a flat to see if there will be any developments that may affect his living environment in future.

A developer can also check the Master Plan for the developments planned for a specific area he is interested in investing. He can also find out how much he can build, through the plot ratios indicated.

Master Plan made Singapore home

The Master Plan has been one of the most important tools in shaping Singapore’s physical development. It is a systematic and comprehensive way of determining the use of every piece of land. While the Concept Plan is the “big picture” that charts out Singapore’s long term land use strategies, the Master Plan translates the vision and broad strategies of the Concept Plan into detailed, realisable proposals in the medium term.

The Master Plan also ensures that enough amenities is being planned for. There is also conscious planning of the integration of transport networks and efforts are made to retain the character of each area. All these contribute to the larger goal of sustaining and improving quality living environments.

Master Plan = reality

The Master Plan provides a rigorous framework for which ideas are realised, bringing real and tangible improvements. Many of the proposals put forth as part of the previous review are being progressively realised through development initiatives from the private and public sector. These include the transformation of Singapore River into a river of history and entertainment, China Square into an exciting blend of old and new, and Novena into a thriving fringe centre. Other examples are new residential areas at Punggol, Sengkang and Jurong East and the development of business parks.

Keeping the Master Plan robust

The Master Plan is reviewed once every five years so that the plan remains up-to-date. Active public participation in the review process ensures a plan that is relevant and reflective of people’s needs and aspirations. The Master Plan has undergone seven reviews since the first one in 1958 as well as various amendments.

Between 1993 and 1998, a comprehensive review of the Master Plan 1985 was carried out, culminating in the gazette of Master Plan 1998 with 55 development guide plans prepared for each planning area in Singapore. In the recently completed review, a different approach was taken, with the Master Plan drawn up on a regional basis, enabling planners to better appreciate the larger context of each region and come up with more holistic strategies that tap into the strengths and opportunities across planning areas.

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