Tenants and regulars at Punggol East Container Park are mourning its imminent closure, saying they will miss its warm, kampung-like atmosphere.
In early September, the Singapore Land Authority (SLA) said that the tenancy for the state property cannot be extended beyond Dec 31, as the site is required for future residential redevelopment.
The outdoor dining enclave, which is home to a mix of restaurants, bars, and sports facilities, will officially shut its doors in November after operating for nearly a decade.
Master tenant City Sprouts, a social enterprise which has also operated urban farms in Punggol, reportedly informed tenants to cease operations by Oct 31.
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When Shin Min Daily News visited the container park, there were still a number of diners despite the hot weather, with several stalls drawing a steady crowd. Many operators said they planned to stay until the final day and make the most of their remaining time there.
Tenants reluctant to leave
Nurnisa Jonson, 35, owner of halal Filipino food stall Tara na!, said she had only opened her first physical outlet at the container park in mid-May.
She had operated a home-based food business for about six years, and this was her first attempt at running a physical shop. After just four months, she is now preparing to move out.
Although she knew the lease was originally due to expire at the end of December, she did not expect to have to move out so soon.
Nurnisa said business had been better than expected since she opened, with some customers making trips from across the island and even Johor, Malaysia.
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