Memories Of The Lost World

One of possibly two of a kind left in Singapore, the Dove of Dakota Crescent, is one in danger of extinction.

Wearing the look of having been used, probably abused, and possibly neglected, it lies forgotten, unwanted by a Singapore obsessed with the need to renew, even where renewal is not required or appreciated.  

It is probably that those in their 30’s who would have grown up with these playgrounds - which were found throughout the island, that there has been a that wave of remembering playgrounds such as these we most of Singapore wants to forget, now that only a few are left. 

As more wear and tear begin to set in, I suppose such playgrounds would inevitably have to be demolished to make way for newer versions - plastic playgrounds with rubber mats. Though I guess some might feel that it is a safer and more hygienic option, I lament at the loss of such a precious memory to Singapore's history and our childhood. Although these no longer around, such simple playground structures were enough to bring many simple pleasures, laughter and memories to many children.

It will probably be a matter of time before the Dove and several other of such playgrounds which are left are replaced as they probably are terribly out of fashion in the brave new world we now embrace.

There is hope that the Dragon of Toa Payoh is saved, and hopefully with it a few more, if not for anything else, at least to remember an important era in our public housing story, having coincided with a time when the monster estates such Clementi, Bedok and Ang Mo Kio were at the peak of their development.