Ho Chi Minh City agencies differ on Ben Thanh Market, Turtle Lake renovations

In a statement released late on Monday, the Department of Construction said the renovations have refreshed the city center, creating a cleaner, more vibrant look that has quickly become a popular photo spot for residents.

For heritage sites such as Ben Thanh Market and the nearby former railway office building, the work has focused on preservation by retaining original colors and architectural details while cleaning and repairing damaged features.

The construction department acknowledged public feedback and said it has conducted site inspections and discussions with the project’s sponsor, Khang Dien House Trading and Investment JSC, about paint colors.

The department stressed that the painted blocks in front of Ben Thanh Market are only temporary, pending a comprehensive plan for the square and underground urban works.

Earlier the same day, the Department of Planning and Architecture issued a proposal to suspend renovations at Ben Thanh Market, Turtle Lake roundabout, and Phu Dong roundabout.

The architecture department argued that differences between approved plans and actual implementation, particularly in color schemes and scope, were sparking public debate and affecting the harmony of the city’s architectural landscape.

Previously approved renovation plans, agreed upon by the Construction Department and the sponsor, include repainting exterior walls of Ben Thanh Market, replacing damaged lighting, and refreshing traffic markings.

At Turtle Lake roundabout, renovation works include repainting the central tower in brighter tones such as white and light gray, repainting curbs and sidewalks, planting new trees, and cleaning surrounding areas.

Similar works will be carried out at Nga Sau Phu Dong roundabout.

Selected buildings along downtown streets like Nguyen Hue, Dong Khoi, Hai Ba Trung, and Ham Nghi, will be repainted, while Ham Nghi Street will also see curbs, concrete walkways, and road markings refurbished.