Braddell Heights Community Club badminton court rental go up post-renovation, peak S$25/hour & off-peak S$15/hour

Following renovations at Braddell Heights Community Club, its badminton court rental fees have increased to S$15 per hour during off-peak hours and S$25 per hour during peak hours.

Shin Min Daily News reported that following the increase, there have been some complaints about the price.

However, others believe the location and facilities are worth it and the fees are acceptable.

Reopened in 2025

This comes after the community club, which is located near Serangoon MRT station, was closed for renovations in 2022 before officially reopening in 2025.

The renovated club focuses on youth interests and provides residents with more diverse activities and facilities, Shin Min reported, adding that this includes indoor badminton courts for public use.

More expensive

Chen, 73, told Shin Min that he feels the badminton court fees are overpriced.

The badminton enthusiast, who is retired and lives nearby, said: "Before the renovation, the price was about S$5 to S$10, and it was very popular, so it was difficult to book the venue.

"After the renovation, I went to inquire about the price, and I didn't expect it to cost S$15 to S$25 per hour."

Chen added that since people usually book the courts for two hours, it costs S$50 to rent a badminton court during peak periods.

"This price is comparable to that of a private badminton court," he said.

"I think that since it is a community club, the price should be more affordable," he added, noting that he is retired with no income.

Chen said: "I just want to play badminton with my friends to exercise. I can't afford to spend so much money to rent a court."

Notice

A Shin Min reporter who recently visited the community club found that the badminton courts were located in the multi-purpose hall, with two courts.

The reporter also observed that a notice was pasted at the entrance informing the public of the cost of renting the badminton courts.

Another member of the public, who wished to remain anonymous, pointed out that the club had just opened, so the facilities were brand new, and it was very conveniently located as it was just a five-minute walk from the MRT station.

The individual added: "I think the price is reasonable, and I might come here to play badminton in the future."

Difference in fees

Responding to Shin Min's queries, the People's Association (PA) said that in order to ensure the long-term sustainability and quality of the facilities, the Community Club Management Committee (CCMC) will establish a fee-charging mechanism.

"As a facility that was recently completed and renovated, the relevant fees reflect the cost required to maintain it," said the PA, adding that "these include cleaning, water and electricity, security and daily maintenance, which are costs that have increased in recent years".

The PA added that in addition, maintaining cleanliness and proper usage conditions of the venue requires engaging third-party contractors for daily maintenance work.

"The related expenses vary depending on the contractors that are hired and the duration of the contracts signed," said the PA, adding that these are all factors taken into consideration when determining the fees.

The PA added that as each community club is independently operated by its own management committee, fee standards may differ according to factors specific to each club.

As such, a difference in fees across community clubs is to be expected.

"The CCMC will continue to regularly review the fee structure. It will ensure affordability for residents and at the same time, maintain community facilities and services."

Top photo via Shin Min Daily News