Publisher's Synopsis
Spatial modernisation in Singapore is a shared outcome of modernism and developmentalism resulting from pursuits for economic survival in the post-independence era. Through state-led programmes, land use transformation is witnessed by social and economic progress strongly associated with anti-traditional behaviours and social rationality. This is infused with political imperatives and convictions in improvements of material standards of living perceived as a symbol of good governance. Prevailing ideological thinking and economic priorities have influenced national leaders in action plans and scope of change, reflected in the form of massive multinational investments, export-led market expansion, transfer of technology and workforce upgrading. In parallel, planning concepts available of the time have been responsible for the ways in which urban morphology changes. Areas investigated in spatial change are the central area, infrastructure, industries, housing and recreational space.
