The famous Tekka Centre in Little India will be undergoing a major facelift, come March this year.
The work is expected to take about 16 months. During the renovation, nearly half of the more than 500 tenants will be moving to temporary premises in Race Course Road.
Rental for the entire period will cost between S$4,500 and S$12,000, depending on location and shop size.
Tan Siat Hiang, a stall owner, said: "I hope business will be better than before. But some of the customers don't know we are shifting there."
Tenants said the renovation cost of the 25-year-old Tekka Centre is more than S$10 million and they can look forward to features like escalators and renovated car parks on their return.
Ajit Kumar, Merchants' Association representative, said: "We are looking forward to it. We are hoping it can attract the new generation."
On their return, the tenants will have to pay between 10 and 20 percent more in rental charges – up from the current S$200 to S$900 monthly. However, they are not too concerned about the rise and are generally optimistic.
"I think wherever you go, your loyal customers will follow. It's just a matter of time. Maybe it will take six months to get used to it. But sooner or later, I think they will still look for you, for the goods and for the service," said Mr Kumar.
The refurbished Tekka Centre is expected to be back in operation in the second half of next year. - CNA/so
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