Remember the resourceful owners of an HDB unit in Tampines that built a koi fish tank right on the steps of their entrance? Yeah, well, it seems like after pictures and videos of the impressive heartland aquarium went viral, it’s been a series of bad days for the flat occupants.

Even though the family actually owns both flats side by side and can access their home through the other set of steps, the Housing Development Board came after them in January to have the glass structure removed. Apparently, the fish tank had existed for several years, but the owner didn’t realize he needed a permit for it. Only after the Tampines Street 41 unit went viral did he approach the Tampines Town Council for a permit.

HDB initially cited safety issues, including risks of injury since the steps were “fundamentally altered,” glass panels potentially shattering on impact, and electrical cables exposed to weather elements. The owner then lodged an appeal to keep his pet fish and their home, working with the town council to address HDB’s concerns, but was finally rejected today.

Back in January, Tampines GRC MP Baey Yam Keng had advocated for the koi tank to stay, explaining that he met with neighbors and kids from nearby childcare centres that were disappointed the structure would have to go.

“Hopefully we can find a way to meet the authority’s requirements as well as keep the tank which has become part of our #TampinesNorth community,” he said.

However, an HDB spokesman told The Straits Times today another reason for the rejection was that the stairway area outside the unit was considered common property. Under the town council’s by-laws, it’s an offence to construct anything unauthorized on such property.

Sadly enough, it looks like the unusual aquarium space may have to go.

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