Introduction

In a troubling situation unfolding at Block 287A Compassvale Crescent, residents are voicing their concerns over a neighbor's unrelenting clutter that has persisted for three years. The problem drew attention back in August 2023 when it was featured in Stomp, a community platform that encourages public reporting on local issues.

Resident's Frustration

One involved resident, known as Stomper Tan, expressed his deep frustration about the lack of resolution. Despite previous interventions by Sengkang Town Council (SKTC) which temporarily removed some of the mess, Tan claims the clutter has returned, and the situation has remained unchanged for over a year.

"We initially reported issues with the clutter back in September 2022," Tan recounted. "The Town Council did shift some items once, but after that, it's been business as usual. I reported the clutter again on September 16, only to find the case closed with the reasoning that the mess didn’t block any risers.”

Town Council's Response

An alleged response from the town council stated, "This issue has been ongoing for around three years. We did previously clear the entire corridor, and as long as the clutter doesn't block any risers or violate safety guidelines set by the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), there’s not much more we can do. Nonetheless, we're committed to conducting monthly inspections to ensure compliance."

Disputed Claims

However, Tan disputes this claim, highlighting a series of photographs taken in October 2024 that suggest otherwise. "It appears that the council hasn’t conducted any recent inspections. The items clearly infringe on the required 1.2 meters of corridor clearance and are even obstructing the fire riser—this is not just a minor inconvenience, it poses a serious risk to our safety!"

Community Concerns

Local residents, including families with young children, are growing increasingly alarmed. "These items don't just pose a fire hazard; they're also creating an environment that's attractive to pests. Our safety is at stake, and we feel powerless with this issue," Tan stated with palpable concern.

Moreover, the clutter can significantly inhibit emergency response in the event of a fire, adding to the urgency of the situation. With many families living in the apartment block, residents are calling on the town council to take stronger action, emphasizing that safety should always come first.

Conclusion

As this distressing issue continues without effective resolution, affected residents remain wary and question whether they can count on the authorities to ensure their well-being. Stomp has reached out to Sengkang Town Council for additional comments regarding this ongoing situation.

Are residents of Compassvale truly stuck in this hazardous situation? If you’d like to stay updated on this unfolding drama, keep an eye out for further developments!