The demolition of Taipei's First Funeral Parlor to make way for green spaces and parking lots has residents concerned about escalating rent prices.
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The closure of the First Funeral Parlor marks the end of nearly 60 years of operation since its establishment in 1965. Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安) attended the deconstruction ceremony, symbolized by the removal of the signboard.
The mayor revealed plans for the site's future. Long-term plans are still under consideration, with discussions focusing on the potential for hospitals, long-term care facilities, social welfare organizations, or commercial ventures. In the meantime, it will serve as a parking lot and green space.
The new development is scheduled to be completed and opened in November. The site is located near Xingtian Temple and spans over 6,000 square meters of land. The land is divided into approximately 4,000 square meters owned by the city and around 2,000 square meters divided between private and state-owned land.
The city government is currently collecting feedback from local residents over what comes next. While the leading suggestions are to use the space for public welfare projects, the prime location has raised concerns among residents about potential rent increases due to business opportunities.