Uniquely Singapore beach should be saved

I agree with the views expressed in “Would East Coast Park still be for all to have after redevelopment?” (Oct 21).

I wish to add that many foreign visitors, several of whom are Americans, have praised Singapore for the greenery on the stretch of East Coast Park, which is quite unlike California’s boisterous beaches, for example.

Due to this unique sense of being close to nature, many of them look forward to visiting the park each time they return to Singapore.

If the greenery were to be replaced by entertainment establishments, in the pursuit of commerce, I envisage the park becoming another Phuket or Pattaya, laden with litter and inebriated patrons.

Furthermore, the noise and potential overcrowding would create negative externalities for Marine Parade residents. In a nutshell, this uniquely Singapore beach should be saved.