HDB shops to be refurbished for $29m

At least 1,335 shops will receive an upgrade fund.

The Singapore government has set aside $29 million to support the rehabilitation of 1,335 HDB shops in the city-state.

According to HDB, 17 sites have been selected under the seventh batch of revitalisation of shops (ROS) scheme that seeks to boost the vibrancy and competitiveness of HDB shops. Eight more sites have applied for the new start-up fund for the formation of merchants’ associations. Overall, these 25 sites are the first to benefit from the optimised ROS scheme.

“The ROS upgrading budget for each shop will be increased by 75%, from $20,000 to $35,000 per shop to enable HDB shops to enjoy a wider scope of upgrading works. The works could include shop directories, fixed awnings, signage, façade improvements and landmark structures, etc,” HDB explained.

To encourage more HDB shops to participate in the ROS scheme, their share of the upgrading cost will be reduced from 50% to 20%, and capped at $5,000. HDB and the Town Councils will co-fund the balance of the upgrading cost, capped at $30,000 per sold shop. For rental shops, HDB and the Town Councils will continue to bear 100% of the upgrading cost, HDB added.