Conservation and the Chinatown pilot project in Singapore

Following the implementation of conservation programmes in Singapore’s built environment over the last two decades, much attention was paid to the concept plans and rationale behind these programmes. There were few studies which examine the managerial and technological issues associated with conservation projects. Most conservation projects in Singapore relate to the restoration of two‐ and three‐storey pre‐war shophouses in densely populated areas. Using the Chinatown pilot project as a case study, highlights the complex operations involved as well as the management approach adopted to overcome some of the difficulties encountered in the project. Suggests that conservation is demanding and requires close co‐operation between members of the building team.