Optimal land use behind golf course decisions: economists

[SINGAPORE] News that several golf clubs may have to lose or reconfigure their courses here have ruffled the feathers of some members, who believe the government is bending to populist pressures.

But observers say while such views are understandable, the moves are more likely to be driven by economic imperatives.

The Ministry of Law (MinLaw), the parent ministry of the Singapore Land Authority, said on Tuesday that Keppel Club is unlikely to be able to keep its golf course once its current lease expires in seven years, and at least one of the Singapore Island Country Club's (SICC) locations may be affected under the government's plans for land use.