The URA has launched an online survey to gather public feedback as it reviews its planning guidelines for restaurants, food shops and pubs located in non-HDB private shophouses near residential estates.

Some of the issues raised are:

• whether entertainment activities should be allowed in restaurants
• the type of food preparation that should be allowed at food shops
• the type of entertainment activities that can be allowed in pubs given that these activities could affect neighbouring residents.

Currently, business operators who wish to set up restaurants, food shops or pubs in private shophouses near residential areas need to apply for a 'change of use' approval from URA. They need to comply with licensing controls of various agencies such as the National Environmental Agency (NEA) for restaurants and food shops, the
Police Entertainment Licensing Unit (PELU) for pubs and the Land Transport Authority (LTA) on traffic and vehicle parking requirements.

While restaurants, food shops and pubs can offer greater convenience to residents in the area and add to the buzz and vibrancy of the neighbourhood, these uses can also potentially create noise, smell, as well as traffic and parking issues.

In its statement, the URA said that it tries to balance the needs of both residents who want these businesses and those who prefer their neighbourhoods undisturbed, along with those of business operators who wish for more flexibility in their business activities.

In this regard, they are hoping to receive input from the public, particularly business operators and those who live close to non-HDB private shophouses. 

For more information, please visit the URA's website at http://www.ura.gov.sg.