A Reddit post about vacant shop units in Katong and Joo Chiat has blown up into a wider discussion about what’s really happening on the ground.
Users pointed out that multiple units—including inside I12 Katong—have stayed empty for long periods, with some businesses closing or rotating out quietly.
While pet shops and a few cafés still draw steady traffic, many feel that parts of the neighbourhood are noticeably slowing down.
It didn’t stop there, users started to discuss what the issue is – is it rent, is it design, or is it changing one’s lifestyle?
What residents are noticing
Across the thread, a common theme is “uneven activity”. Some side streets apparently have “dry runs” and busy sections around malls and main roads are apparently “popular”.
One commenter summed up the situation simply:
“It’s not just the amount of empty units that’s crazy, but how long they’ve been sitting vacant.”
Others pointed out that certain clusters, especially around shophouse areas, feel inconsistent depending on the day and time.
“It’s parking, heat, and layout” — users said
One user wrote a long breakdown of daily reality:
“Many of the shop houses’ foot traffic is poor… it’s not easy to find parking… shops only attract influencers who visit once…”
The other person mentioned that the biggest problem is navigating the tight, cluttered spaces and steps.
Rent still dominates the debate
Despite all the different theories, most users kept returning to one point: rent. Comments repeatedly argued that pricing is out of sync with demand:
“Rents, rents, rents, rents – no vacancy tax.”
“If rents were halved, everything will be occupied.”
However, others disagreed, saying lower rent alone won’t fix weak accessibility and low footfall.
A neighbourhood caught in transition
Some users defended the area, pointing out that Katong still performs well in pockets, especially near MRT-linked zones and popular dining clusters.
Others argued that the issue is more structural — a mix of car dependency, design limitations, and changing consumer behaviour after COVID.
What most people agreed on, however, is simple: the empty units are difficult to ignore.
See the post here:
Anyone else noticed the growing number of vacant shop units around Katong?
byu/HB_SG insingapore
More from Wake Up Singapore:-
Thrill-seekers flood in as Singapore unveils world’s tallest land-based drop slide
Singapore’s light festival transforms Marina Bay into interactive art playground
If you have a story or a tip-off, email admin@wakeup.sg or get in touch via Whatsapp at 8882 5913.
Interested in advertising on our media channels? Reach out to us at admin@wakeup.sg!
Since you have made it to the end of the article, follow Wake Up Singapore on Telegram and X!
Wake Up Singapore is a volunteer-run site that covers alternative views in Singapore. If you want to volunteer with us, sign up here!
