World · Singapore Bureau
Tampines HDB blocks to be painted over to address water seepage issues
Tampines Town Council has announced plans to paint over the distinctive brick facades of a landmark HDB project to resolve persistent water infiltration problems. The decision, backed by professional assessments, has drawn criticism from residents and heritage advocates.
LSN Singapore ·
The iconic brick-faced Housing and Development Board blocks in Tampines will undergo a painting initiative aimed at tackling longstanding water seepage problems affecting the structures. Town Council officials said professional evaluations now support the decision to coat the brick surfaces, which have characterised the estate's distinctive appearance since its development.
Water infiltration has been a recurring maintenance challenge for the blocks, prompting the council to explore remedial solutions. According to the council, technical assessments validate the painted finish as an effective measure to prevent moisture ingress and protect the structural integrity of the buildings.
However, the proposal has attracted opposition from quarters concerned about the alteration of the estate's architectural identity. Critics argue that painting over the original brick facades will diminish the visual character that has made the Tampines project architecturally notable within Singapore's public housing landscape.
The town council indicated it would proceed with the project, balancing preservation considerations against the practical need to address water damage and extend the lifespan of the structures. No timeline for the painting work has been announced, pending further consultation with residents and stakeholders.