One quarter of HDB shops infringed outdoor display rules: Khaw

SINGAPORE — A recent check on shops in Housing and Development Board (HDB) heartlands showed that a quarter of them have infringed the Outdoor Display Areas (ODA) guidelines, National Development Minister Khaw Boon Wan said in his blog today (Jan 13).

The inspection was a joint effort by the HDB, Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), National Environment Agency (NEA) and local town councils.

The ODA are spaces marked by yellow boxes where shopkeepers can display their goods along public pathways to pull in crowds. As the Chinese New Year approaches, some shopkeepers are flouting the rules as they stock up goods for the festive season.

“Unfortunately, some shopkeepers go overboard, with indiscriminate stacking and display of goods that spill beyond the yellow boxes,” Mr Khaw said.

“This can greatly inconvenience shoppers, hindering the traffic flow. Worse, in some instances, this can compromise the fire safety of residents.”

Nonetheless, Mr Khaw added that most shopkeepers would promptly take corrective action when reminded although summons were also issued for a handful of serious cases.

“I thank our shopkeepers for their cooperation in ensuring a clutter-free and safe shopping environment for our residents,” he said.