Statement from Bishan-Toa Payoh Town Council in reply to The Straits Times article HDB resident hopes to keep makeshift patio despite fines published on 9 December 2014. I refer to your report on the makeshift patios erected by a resident at block 3, Lorong Toa Payoh. The makeshift patios erected by Mr Silva, a resident, sit on common property for the use of all residents. The Town Council had inspected the patios erected in the front and at the rear of his ground floor unit at block 3. We informed Mr Silva that the Christmas decorations were approved as it added colour and festivity to the block and were enjoyed by residents. However, the rear patio could not be approved for the following reasons. First, the patio was erected on common property around his unit and not for common use. Second, the flooring of wooden planks were warped and uneven, with holes in them. Elderly and young children could trip and hurt themselves when walking there. Third, the patio was a potential mosquito breeding site and a risk for dengue infections, due to stagnant water under the wooden plank flooring and in the surrounding potted plants with hardened soil. Mr Silva was informed that the makeshift patios infringed the common property by-laws to protect residents safety and ensure communal use of common property. Fines were issued for non-compliance. The Town Council is happy to support all projects which promote community bonding. Indeed, this is part of our overall mission. However, these projects must benefit not specific individuals, but all residents and must not endanger their health or safety. The Town Council will work with the community leaders and Mr Silva to find an safe and acceptable outcome that meets the primary aims of the use of common areas for the benefit of all residents. Ling Ming Chuan Chief Executive Officer Bishan-Toa Payoh Town Council
Posted on: Thu, 11 Dec 2014 09:57:15 +0000
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