Public housing in Singapore

Abstract Since gaining independence, Singapore has undergone a massive urban transformation. This is largely the result of the country's successful economic strategy, which has seen a pronounced shift from post-colonial depression to a self-confident and expanding industrial economy. The achievements in public housing are part of this programme of modernization, but should also be viewed in the light of the country's special circumstances. Singapore's large population and its limited land area are the two major constraints which have encouraged the development of high-rise and high-density housing. Furthermore, the centralization of national and local government functions has afforded considerable autonomy to statutory boards and development agencies, thereby facilitating the promotion and organization of change. This paper focuses on the quantitative achievements of the Housing and Development Board (HDB) in the field of public housing which have, indeed, been impressive.