Decentralisation

Sustaining a thriving economy

As a small city-state with no natural resources, careful long-term planning of Singapore’s limited land is a key enabler to build a future-ready economy and anchor jobs and investments. We work closely with economic agencies to plan business nodes to drive sustainable growth, while maintaining a quality environment for all to live, work and play.

Singapore embarked on a decentralisation strategy in the early 1990s to plan and develop economic gateways across the island, each leveraging its strategic location to drive different sectors of growth. This reduces traffic congestion towards the city centre, provides businesses with options across the island, and brings jobs and amenities closer to homes, enhancing convenience and accessibility for residents and workers.

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Decentralisation in a polycentric city

We will continue to strengthen our Northern, Eastern and Western gateways as important economic hubs, with the growth of highly connected business ecosystems capitalising on key transport links, such as the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System, Changi Airport Terminal 5, and Tuas Port.

Our regional centres at Woodlands, Jurong Lake District, and Tampines are supported by major transport hubs such as bus and MRT interchanges, which allow people to travel to and from them conveniently. There are also sub-regional centres (e.g. Bishan, Serangoon, Paya Lebar) as well as fringe centres (e.g. Newton, Novena) distributed across the island, connected by a strong transport network and served by a wide range of amenities.

Shaping a more vibrant Downtown

We are not only continuing to strengthen the city centre to anchor Singapore’s position as a global financial hub but also transforming the precinct into a more vibrant place to live, work, and play. Through initiatives such as the CBD Incentive (CBDI) and Strategic Development Incentive (SDI) schemes, we are encouraging more mixed-use neighbourhoods to support more city living opportunities and strong community life.  

For example, the Anson-Tanjong Pagar area is undergoing a series of transformations facilitated by the CBDI scheme, with new mixed-use developments and public spaces being introduced. The addition of new homes and amenities will support a larger residential community, contributing to a more liveable and lively city centre while improving access to jobs.