THE popular Cecil Street Food Court and its wet market are set to undergo a makeover, including upgrades to the rooftop awning and public toilets for the convenience of market goers, pending approval from the Housing and Local Government Ministry.
Previously, the complex underwent a series of refurbishments, which included the installation of proper grease traps for traders, a better drainage system, and the creation of a more vibrant environment.
Speaking to Buletin Mutiara, Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Wong Yuee Harng said the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk A. Rajendran and his team had already briefed the ministry on such a plan.
“If everything goes according to plan, we expect the works to be carried out by this year. We are now awaiting the green light from the ministry to proceed with the makeover.
“In fact, when I was an MBPP councillor eight years ago, I proposed several upgrades for the market.
“We want to make the market and the food court a convenient place for the community,” he said.
Wong highlighted that the traders at the complex will benefit from the refurbishment of the public toilets and rooftops.
“The traders and hawkers have been paying only seventy cents for their daily licences, accumulating to a total of RM21 a month. Despite this, the council is still collaborating with the Tanjong and Pengkalan Kota service centres to improve the public facilities,” he added.
MBPP Licencing Alternate chairman Tan Soo Siang said the council is now awaiting approval from the ministry.
“Our aim is to create a conducive environment for the public who frequently visit the famous Cecil Street Wet Market and its food court,” she said.
Regarding motorcycle parking lots, Tan said the council plans to increase the number of parking bays for motorcyclists.
Meanwhile, a Jawa Mee seller at the food court, known as Steve, hoped the council would improve the accessibility of the area, especially during congestion.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Siew Chia En