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  Straits Times Forum Online 6 Feb 05
Gardens by the Bay a national asset for all

WE AGREE with the comment in the editorial 'How gardens come alive' (ST, Jan 24) that the question of opportunity cost for the Gardens by the Bay can be overdone.

In land-use planning, one cannot simply monetise the value of every bit of land to derive the maximum yield.

We should not, for example, cater only for residential and commercial use, but must also take care of other equally important needs, such as social amenities and recreation, as well as larger goals.

Today, Singapore is known worldwide as a Garden City. This commands a premium for Singapore, one which many other countries are trying to develop. It is an advantage that is the result of a deliberate decision to create a Garden City, and the dedication of land and resources to realise the vision.

Moving forward, we will need to do more and enhance our competitiveness, and create new strengths, so Singapore can distinguish itself in future.

The value of being green is difficult to quantify and as a result, often underestimated. Many city parks in other countries, such as Central Park in New York and Hyde Park in London, enhance the aesthetic and economic value of their surrounding developments. Residents, businesses and visitors are also attracted to pleasant and verdant cities with high quality environments.

Marina Bay will be the centrepiece of Singapore as a vibrant global city. The Gardens by the Bay will offer an entirely new quality experience for Singaporeans and visitors to live, work and play closer to the water, surrounded by lush greenery. The value of surrounding land parcels around the Gardens will also be enhanced as a result.

The National Parks Board (NParks) is fully aware of the immense responsibility it has been entrusted with to create the most magnificent gardens possible in the area set aside for the benefit of all Singaporeans.

For this reason, it has launched a worldwide talent search to secure the best plans and designs upon which to base the creation of these gardens. The Gardens by the Bay will be developed as a national garden for all Singaporeans and visitors to enjoy.

Yeo Meng Tong
Director, Parks Development National Parks Board

Michael Koh
Director (Urban Planning and Design) Urban Redevelopment Authority
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