Protecting Singapore's Heritage

CONSERVATION wasn't always a priority when Singapore was in its early stages of development. But a concerted effort to conserve the city's old buildings started 30 years ago, and a new exhibition by the Urban Redevelopment Authority traces that journey.

The first Conservation Master Plan was proposed in the mid-1980s. But as early as the 1960s, conservation was already a key consideration despite urban renewal being a more urgent task.

Alan Choe, head of the then Urban Renewal Unit, already recognised the importance of historical landmarks in redevelopment areas, and sought to safeguard them. With support from then Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, the Preservation of Monuments Board was established in 1971 to study sites of significance. In 1973, eight buildings, including Thong Chai Building, Thian Hock Keng and St Andrew's Cathedral were granted protection as national monuments under the Preservations of Monuments Board.

In 1987, Tanjong Pagar was the first area to be selected for large-scale conservation by URA with 220 shophouses eventually restored.

Conservation efforts later expanded to other areas such as Telok Ayer, Kreta Ayer, Bukit Pasoh, Little India, Kampong Glam, Boat Quay, Clarke Quay, Emerald Hill and Cairnhill.

In the 1990s, URA rolled out more programmes, focusing on getting owners to see the value in restoring their buildings. In 2005, it launched the Architectural Heritage Awards, to recognise worthy projects and incentivise others to raise standards in restoration. URA also started to preserve iconic local structures themselves, including the bandstand at the Singapore Botanic Gardens. So far, 7,200 buildings and structures have been conserved.

URA'S CEO Lim Eng Hwee, says, "Conservation is not just URA's journey, but involves active participation and strong support from all stakeholders. Only then will our conserved buildings be meaningful and relevant to Singapore today. Our pioneers and partners have built a good foundation in shaping our vibrant heritage landscape over the past 30 years, and we celebrate their contributions today."

30 Years of Conservation is on till Dec 14 at URA Centre Atrium, Mon to Sat, 9am to 5pm. Admission is free.