Utilisation Rate of HDB Community Spaces

12 Mr Leon Perera asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether there have been studies on the utilisation rate of HDB community spaces; and (b) whether the Ministry will consider renting selected community spaces to private property owners who live close to the rented space for the purpose of funerals, subject to reasonable limits on usage and payment of higher charges than those payable by HDB flat owners.

Mr Lawrence Wong: The Housing and Development Board (HDB) provides a variety of spaces for residents' use, such as precinct pavilions and void decks. From feedback, we know that these community spaces are in demand and popular with residents. They are designed as public spaces for all to enjoy and use freely. So, it is not practical to track the utilisation rate of these spaces.

In accordance with the Town Councils (Use of Common Property) Rules, the Town Councils may issue permits and impose charges, as they consider necessary, for the use of common property for social or communal functions such as weddings or funerals at void decks, open spaces and precinct pavilions.

All applicants who wish to apply to use these spaces could approach the relevant Town Councils which would process such applications, while taking into consideration residents' needs and possible disamenities to residents living in the precinct.