Rail works better Many cities around the world constantly grapple with traffic congestion, a result of unsustainable car growth, which undermines efficiency, drains resources and pollutes the environment. In Singapore, these problems are prevented by providing an extensive public rail network, which is closely integrated with land use, to serve high-population areas. Being more efficient “people-movers”, rail transit stations can support high-density developments around it. Hence, high-density housing, commercial uses and selected industries are put around them, which also optimises land use. More residents and workers can enjoy the greater convenience. The critical mass of commuters in turn makes such rail systems viable. In future, the rail network will continue to be expanded islandwide and grow denser in the city centre. Quality environment, quality life With about 85% of Singaporean households living in public housing, the quality environment achieved in public housing estates contributes greatly to the quality of life of the population. URA works closely with the Housing Development Board in planning for a total living environment in each new town. Shops and eating places, as well as facilities such as libraries, sports stadiums, schools, community clubs, playgrounds and parks are all conveniently located and easily accessible. Such provisions enhance the liveability of these areas by providing for the residents’ needs within the town. To further improve the living environment, an additional 1,200 ha of green space is planned in the Master Plan 2003, including another 120 km of park connectors to provide linkages between parks and where residents can jog and cycle. For Singapore, to be a city that lasts, its planners cannot be short-sighted. With principles and strategies to address both current and future needs, planning ensures that what has been achieved today can continue to be sustained and even improved in the future. Part of this article is adapted from a speech by DS(ND) & URA’s CEO Designate, Mrs Cheong Koon Hean, at Asia Leadership Forum, Hong Kong, on26 Feb 2004.

URA, in its current role as Singapore’s national planning and conservation authority was created in 1989 with its amalgamation with the Planning Department and Research and Statistics Unit of Ministry of National Development. But its history goes back further to April 1974 when it was first established as a statutory board from its predecessor, Urban Renewal Department in the Housing and Development Board, to plan, guide and implement the urban renewal of Singapore’s central area.