Written answer by Ministry of National Development on support measures to assist the over 400 rental households in Toa Payoh that are being relocated for redevelopment purposes

Feb 5, 2024

Question No: 5379

Question by: Dr Wan Rizal

To ask the Minister for National Development (a) what are the support measures to assist the over 400 rental households in Toa Payoh that are being relocated for redevelopment purposes; and (b) how do such redevelopments align with community stability and affordable housing.

Answer:

In 2021, HDB started a relocation exercise involving 414 households living in public rental flats at Blocks 29 and 31 at Lorong 5 Toa Payoh. This exercise was part of the Government’s plans to redevelop older estates to provide new and better homes and amenities for Singaporeans. 

2.             To facilitate a smooth transition for the affected households, HDB formed a Care Team with representatives from various public agencies and community partners to support the tenants every step of the way. HDB officers also went door-to-door to engage tenants on their rehousing options and benefits, and set up on-site counters and a dedicated hotline to address queries. 

3.             HDB’s Care Team paid special attention to vulnerable groups, such as seniors, and offered them additional support. For example, volunteers were mobilised to help to move their belongings. HDB also worked with social service agencies to ensure continuity in the residents’ care services and social assistance.

4.             To preserve community ties and allow the affected households to continue living in a familiar environment, HDB set aside vacant rental flats nearby for offer as replacement flats. Households were also given the option of choosing any available rental flat across the island. While many moved to flats nearby, some moved to other towns, mostly to be near their family members.

5.             Every household affected by the relocation received $2,500 in rehousing allowance to defray the cost of moving. To support home ownership for those who were able to buy a flat, HDB offered them a Relocation Grant of $15,000 on top of other housing grants they were eligible for.

6.             All 414 households completed the relocation process by May 2023. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all agencies and community partners who stepped forward to support the households at Blocks 29 and 31 at Lorong 5 Toa Payoh during the relocation exercise.