Small shops are not the only eyesore

Most developed cities in the world have municipal guidelines that regulate architectural standards and public displays. It is in the public interest to set basic aesthetic standards, whether to curb gross commercialisation or simple bad taste. As a rapidly developing city, Abu Dhabi is no different than any other.

Sometimes, however, a sense of perspective takes precedence over immediate change.

As The National reported yesterday, small-business owners in Abu Dhabi are being hit by new standardisation requirements for shop signage. Many outlets, especially small corner shops and groceries, already work on very small profit margins, and the cost of compliance with the new regulations could lead to closures.

For all the problems associated with some small shops - some are admittedly unhygienic, others garish in their advertising - they are a vital part of commerce and society. Should large-scale closures occur, it would an unfortunate loss to the capital's varied neighbourhoods. Small, affordable shops and restaurants serve as cornerstones in communities and play an essential role in many residents' daily lives.

To be sure, an urban renewal programme is welcome at many levels. The small shops should be subject to a degree of regulation, as has been enacted with recent hygiene inspections. Ideally, small shop owners should be induced to spruce up their store facades as well - this does not mean one-size-fits-all, just a general raising of the bar.

The capital, however, must also start from the bottom up in urban renewal. In many of the neighbourhoods where these small shops are located (although, admittedly, they are scattered across the city), there are broken pavements and other eyesores that should be attended to first.

Often small shop owners might sweep the pavement in front of their establishments, but they cannot be responsible for the roads and sidewalks in disrepair.

As the neighbourhoods improve, so too will the small shops. Neighbourhoods benefit from improvements at all levels. And small businesses are the bedrock of many communities.