TAIPING: Renovation works of the iconic Taiping Market are expected to be completed by August next year, says Nga Kor Ming.
The Local Government Development Minister said the 139-year-old market, which has been partly torn down, will be ready before the Merdeka Day celebration and also in time with the 150th anniversary of Taiping as a heritage town.
"The contractors say they can deliver the project by June next year but we give them more time.
"If they cannot deliver the project according to schedule, they can be fined for a late delivery damage (cost) of RM1,278 per day," he said at a press conference after a working visit to several locations here on Saturday (July 22).
"The ministry has also approved an additional RM11mil to the Taiping Municipal Council to ensure that all three components of the market, including the Siang Malam Market, old and new markets, will be ready in time," he added.
He also said that serious termite infestation has forced the building to be torn down and rebuilt.
"During the briefing, at least 115 wooden beams have been badly damaged by termites.
"The badly damaged wooden structures forced us to take progressive steps to rescue the historic building," he said.
"The rebuild will be based on the same design, materials and colour, as required under the National Heritage Act.
"The (original) wooden beams are from the balau tree, which we will also be using," he added.
Separately, Nga said the ministry has approved and allocated about RM22mil for 39 projects in Taiping.
He said aside from the Taiping market project, the others included roof repair works for the Aulong wet market, upgrading the four rest houses at Bukit Larut and enhancing the Taiping Heritage Square.
