Then and now

The old shop houses in front of high-density public housing.
From Prinsep Street.

The washing poles retain a touch of stubborness - washing is supposed to be hidden as you may see if you look closely. It's not unknown for things to fall from great heights, and from time-to-time there is an advertising campaign to remind people to be careful. The pole is likely more dangerous than the washing.


HDB public housing must rank as one of the successes of Singapore, given the constraints of space, and certainly anyone familiar with high-rise living in Europe cannot but be impressed.

Land prices have increased sharply over the past year, and housing is now as expensive as in any major city. I am currently negotiating a new lease and find rents have increased 30% to 40% in two years. New land has been released for building and some tax incentives for speculators removed, so it is hoped that prices will stabilise.