Dynamic Place Attachment as Enabler in Redevelopment Programs of Singapore Public Housing Neighborhoods

Abstract

Singapore is characterized by land scarcity, rapidly changing demographic conditions, and around 80% of its population living in public housing. In the context of massive urban regeneration-induced displacement programs, and particularly ‘Selective En-bloc Scheme’ (SERS), this paper seeks to illuminate the dynamic nature of place attachment in response to change and uncertainty. Informed by the literature review, we propose an original conceptual framework to capture place attachment at displacement, with particular focus on the role of place and time. The framework comprises four interdependent dimensions, namely: socio-spatial network, community ties, engagement/negotiation and continuity/familiarity. A five-week pilot study was conducted in Tanglin Halt neighborhood, currently undergoing its third displacement project. It employed mixed-method research, comprising policy-review, initial spatial mapping and analysis, first-person observations, and 137 surveys and 38 interviews with local residents and visitors. Key-findings highlight the continuous role of built-environment, socio-spatial heart in particular, in construction and re-construction of place attachment over-time, whereby the presence of a socio-ecological system promotes dynamic (rather than stagnant) occurrence of place attachment and adaptation to disruptions. If carefully considered, place attachment can improve relocation processes and enable mobility. Finally, the pilot study informed an ongoing longitudinal study, with refined spatial mapping method.