http://www.straitstimes.com/ST%2BForum/Story/STIStory_177219.html
Nov 16, 2007
I REFER to the letter, 'Clear HDB shopfronts for elderly, handicapped' (ST, Nov 5), by Ms Tong Jee Cheng.
The misuse of the Outdoor Display Area (ODA) is an irresponsible act, and poses a danger to residents by blocking the access routes in times of fire or other emergencies.
The ODA guidelines were drawn up in consultation with the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), National Environment Agency (NEA) and the town councils to educate shopkeepers on the proper use of the ODA. One of the guidelines is that there must be a minimum 1.5m-wide clear corridor passageway from the front of the shop to the ODA.
The guidelines are enforced nationwide, to ensure the proper use of the ODA by HDB shopkeepers.
The town councils will conduct regular checks to ensure that ODAs comply with the guidelines. To augment the efforts by the town councils, HDB, SCDF, NEA and town councils have been carrying out joint enforcement exercises.
There are provisions in the Town Council By-laws to take errant shopkeepers to task. They would be issued an offence notice and be required to appear before the courts. If they are successfully prosecuted, they could be fined up to a maximum of $5,000. The town councils can also remove the merchandise and paraphernalia if they obstruct the passageway.
We thank Ms Tong for her feedback and would like to urge shopkeepers to cooperate with the town councils and comply with the ODA guidelines.
Lim Huat Eng
Deputy Director (Commercial Properties Management)
For Director (Properties and Land) Housing and Development Board
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