Wandering cyclists and pets accompanying their owners at the hawker centre located at Block 22 along Toa Payoh Ave 7 are not a new sight. But they are causing inconvenience - and even posing potential danger - to pedestrians who use the same walkways and corridors.

Lianhe Wanbao reported that there have been numerous cyclists riding around the food centre. Some even paddle right up to the food stall to buy food. Pets and their owners have been spotted and some patrons have been caught spitting as well.

A 70-year-old retiree named Mr Lim told Lianhe Wanbao: "I've even seen motorbikes riding through the market to deliver goods.

"Allowing these motorists and cyclists to ride wherever they want within the market and food centre causes inconvenience to the patrons, not to mention how dangerous it is."

Mr Lim told the Chinese daily that there are a number of signs stating "No Bicycles" and "No Pets" placed within the vicinity, but no one pays heed; hence his only hope will be for the relevant authorities to take considerable action against these offenders.

A reporter from Lianhe Wanbao visited the food centre and witnessed the exact scenario - patrons would weave their way through the food centre on their bicycles and even ride up to the food stall to buy food. Some bicycles were spotted resting against tables since there were not a lot of people there on that day.

"I didn't notice the signs," said 54-year-old cyclist, Mr Chen. "I don't find it strange to have people cycling within the food centre. Personally, I wouldn't mind people riding around and I don't think it's that dangerous."

A spokesman from the National Environment Agency (NEA) told Lianhe Wanbao that cycling within food centres is prohibited and offenders can be fined up to $5,000 or sentenced to one year jail if he or she caused any danger while doing so. It is also illegal to bring pets to places where food is served. Spitting and littering in public places is also illegal.

NEA has since installed more signs at the Toa Payoh food centre and will work with Bishan and Toa Payoh town councils to implement stricter rules and penalties.