We agree with Mr Gan Kok Tiong that it is important to ensure that hawker centres serve their functional purpose ("Function must come before aesthetics for hawker centres"; last Tuesday).

New hawker centres built by the Government have introduced several new features, such as high ceilings for better natural ventilation, conveniently located tray-return facilities, and nursing and diaper-changing rooms, to create a comfortable environment for patrons doing their marketing and dining at the centres.

At Bukit Panjang Hawker Centre, measures to minimise rainwater splashing at the perimeter of the centre were taken into consideration at the design stage.

Nonetheless, upon completion of the centre, it was found that a portion of the centre was occasionally affected by rain during times of heavy rainfall and strong wind.

To address this, modification works, part of which includes installing a fixed panel behind the louvres of the centre to minimise rainwater splashing, will be carried out this month.

At the design stage, special care was also taken to ensure that the centre provided adequate circulation space for wheelchair users and families with prams.

Features such as a family dining area were also introduced to cater to the needs of families with young children.

The National Environment Agency will continue to work closely with various stakeholders to improve our hawker centres.

Philip Teo

Director

Planning and Development

Hawker Centres Division

National Environment Agency