Shophouse Housing Iconic 328 Katong Laksa in East Coast Safe Despite Facade Collapse

SINGAPORE – Residents and patrons of East Coast can breathe a sigh of relief as the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) has confirmed that a partially damaged shophouse at 51 East Coast Road, home to the famous 328 Katong Laksa, remains structurally sound. On January 1, a portion of the building's facade crumbled, stirring concerns among the community.

The two-storey pre-war shophouse experienced spalling concrete from a non-load bearing architectural feature, which prompted the BCA to conduct an immediate assessment. In a statement released on January 2, they clarified that the damage was localized and posed no threat to the building’s overall integrity.

To ensure safety, the BCA has recommended that the owner engage a professional engineer to carry out further assessments and necessary corrective measures. Meanwhile, an outdoor seating area beneath the damaged facade has been cordoned off to safeguard diners while the eatery remains operational for indoor seating.

Nancy Koh, the founder of 328 Katong Laksa, revealed that the establishment has occupied the location for approximately 24 years and that the affected section had shown signs of minor cracks in recent months. The local community continues to support the beloved eatery, renowned for its signature laksa dish.

The incident at 328 Katong Laksa marks the second occurrence of facade materials falling from prominent buildings in Singapore within a short span. Just days earlier, on December 29, tiles from an arch at the entrance to Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple in Waterloo Street fell, resulting in a minor injury to a devotee.

As Singaporeans continue to explore and enjoy its rich culinary scene, safety remains paramount. The BCA is committed to ensuring the integrity of such historic buildings, which are vital to the nation's cultural heritage. Stay tuned for updates on the ongoing safety assessments and measures being implemented to secure these cherished locales.