HDB also said it will ensure the area retains the same variety of choices, as far as possible, when the application is approved.

The possibility of converting a wet market at Marine Parade into an air-conditioned, privately owned supermarket has cast a cloud over the future of stallholders.

Lim Lee Chye, a hawker at Marine Parade wet market, said: "After our lease expires, we won't have a say in the decision, so everyone's worried."

On the other hand, the Federation of Merchants' Association said supermarkets will add value to the community. This is because they can afford to sell goods at lower prices, retail for longer hours and provide work to younger jobseekers.

To retain customers, the association added that stallholders at wet markets must draw on their strengths.

Chua Ser Keng, president of the Federation of Merchants' Association, said: "One advantage they have is that their produce is fresher, so customers can expect better quality when they buy from them."

Another plus point is the sense of community that stallholders bring to the estate.

David Chiang, chairman of Bukit Timah Market Hawker Association, said: "You can see friends drinking tea or chatting. Hawkers are also friendly with one another and sometimes if you don't have enough money, you can put it on your tab."

Currently, there are 101 wet markets in Singapore, owned by the National Environment Agency or under private management.

- CNA/so