Cultural Connections Vol. 2

Cultural Connections Vol. 2

Article Title
A Historic Heart: How Heritage Districts Can Make Cities More Liveable

Authors
Centre for Liveable Cities (Michael Koh and Katyana Melic)

Synopsis
A liveable city is one where a high quality of life, sustainable environment and competitive economy are made accessible to all its residents. Historic districts contribute towards the liveability, accessibility and attractiveness of a city. Conserved historic buildings and their related urban spaces help anchor a city’s distinctive identity, providing residents with a sense of rootedness and civic pride, while also attracting visitors from afar. Providing shared public spaces in these districts encourages interactions that nurture a thriving communal life and social integration. But all these outcomes call for the active and thoughtful participation of local planners and programmers, and effective partnerships between the public and private sectors, to ensure that the built environment can contribute to Singapore’s liveability as a city, with authentic, thriving neighbourhoods and inclusive communities.

Read more