Clarification on Guidelines to Retain Timber Staircases in Conservation Shophouses Within the Historic Districts and Residential Historic Districts

Circular No : URA/PB/2008/07–CUDD

Our Ref : DC/ADMIN/CIRCULAR/PB_08

CIRCULAR TO PROFESSIONAL INSTITUTES

1. Conservation shophouses are traditionally built with timber floors and staircases. To keep the original architectural character of such heritage buildings, conservation guidelines require that original timber floors and staircases be retained.

2. We would like to clarify that when repair, replacement or relocation are carried out to staircases, timber is to be used for the structural supports, treads and risers. Metal can also be used but not reinforced concrete. This guideline also applies to new staircases that have to be compartmentalised to meet FSSD’s requirements.

3. Only existing reinforced concrete staircases can be retained. New staircases are not to be constructed in reinforced concrete as this is not in keeping with the character of conserved buildings with traditional timber flooring systems.

4. I would appreciate if you could convey the contents of this circular to the relevant members of your organisation. If there are any queries concerning this circular, please do not hesitate to e-mail us at ura_cu@ura.gov.sg. For your information, past circulars to professional institutes are available at our website http://www.ura.gov.sg.

Thank You.

LER SENG ANN
DIRECTOR (CONSERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES)
CONSERVATION & URBAN DESIGN DIVISION
For CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
URBAN REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY