Shops and market stalls under the Workers' Party town council are getting some relief from Covid-19-induced pain.

Aljunied-Hougang Town Council (AHTC) is extending a 25 per cent rebate on their service and conservancy charges (S&CC) for June to August 2020 to these businesses.

The town council, the only one not managed by the People's Action Party (PAP), said it will cost about S$300,000 to fund this financial relief for commercial establishments.

AHTC said in a June 12 statement that AHTC's MPs and councillors deliberated on how to help commercial businesses under its purview during this Covid-19 outbreak period.

It opted for straightforward monetary rebates.

AHTC also said S&CC late payment fees have also been waived for all commercial units from April to September.

Also waived were the charges pertaining to the use of outdoor advertising areas for all commercial establishments in its estates that had to close during the circuit breaker period during April to June.

The statement said: "This decision comes following the announcement of a three-phased lifting of circuit breaker measures. Now in its first phase, many businesses are still not able to open, or are opened with restrictions."

In comparison, a total of 15 PAP town councils will give a S&CC rebate of 15 per cent from July to October for all shops and market stalls in estates under their management.

The relief amounts to nearly S$3 million.

Top photo via Google Maps