Change is under way in Joo Chiat that could transform the sleepy, heritage-rich neighbourhood over the next few years.
Once noted for its sleazy nightlife, Joo Chiat has become far quieter since a vice crackdown, but new buildings and a changing demographic promise to revitalise the area. Several old houses and walk-up apartments have been giving way to new developments over the past decade despite some sites being gazetted for conservation.
Smaller boutique condos of fewer than 100 units have been springing up.
Joo Chiat is also a hotel enclave with many existing outlets and a new one earmarked for the historic old police station site.
The advantages of Joo Chiat projects are their freehold tenure and accessibility to the city. The place is also near amenities like East Coast Park and Parkway Parade mall, and CHIJ Katong Convent and Tao Nan School.
Older flats have been going for between $700 and $1,200 psf against primary sales at $1,000 to $1,600 psf. At such prices, homes at Joo Chiat are among the more affordable ones in District 15, cheaper than those closer to the sea front such as along Meyer or Amber roads.
Source: The Straits Times – 30 June 2012