SINGAPORE – Dakota resident Oh Ai Khim missed a daily meal break at her favorite food court, which was closed for remediation for four months.

“I was ‘bitter’ about missing the wide variety of delicious food here,” he said on Nov. 4. “I’m glad to be back and find the place cleaner, cooler and brighter.”

The 70-year-old retired dishwasher summed up the feelings of many customers and vendors after revisiting the food court and shopping mall at Block 51 Old Airport Road, which reopened Oct. 1.

Popular food hub had happened Closed from 1 June to 30 September for renewal.

Marine Parade Town Council said cyclical repair and redecoration (R&R) work included repainting internal and external walls, repairing defects in public areas and replacing tables and chairs.

Energy-saving LED lighting was also installed, as well as high-volume low-speed fans. Toilets were renovated and exhaust systems improved.

In addition to installing new floor and wall tiles, bird netting and spikes were added and the outdoor seating area was improved.

Mr Ding Fang Zhi, 50, opened his new stall called 98 Handmade Noodles, Fish Soup and Spinach Soup at the food centre, after renovations.

Mr Ding, whose stall was previously located in Serangoon, said: “I appreciate the fans that make the place cooler and the new tables and chairs for a better dining experience.”

But others had mixed feelings about the renovation.

Among them is Mr Lim Kee Yong. His letter was published on the Straits Times Forum page On October 29th.

He said despite the installation of larger ceiling fans, ventilation remained inadequate because there was no proper extraction system and smoke from barbecuing and frying accumulated and made people cough.

Cooks and helpers also have to work in very cramped conditions.