THERE is a sense of relief for Hargreaves Mall traders, but a bitter taste still remains after the first day of trading without the construction site.And Bendigo residents, who had their first chance to view the mall without scaffolding and fences, continue to voice disappointment with the design.Diva manager Ashley Noakes said the store had been flat-out since the fences had come down.“We have noticed a difference, more people are coming in,” Ms Noakes said.“But the mall still looks bare and grey, it needs some colour.”Hudsons Coffee franchisee Craig Schreiber said it was too early to tell if the business would profit from the builders’ retreat.“It is good, we have been looking at a fence for nearly two years, it allows the customers coming to the mall more freedom and it is more welcoming,” Mr Schreiber said. Toasties owner Steve Gray said it was the first time in two years he and staff had been able to see people out in the mall.He echoed the comments of fellow traders that there was nothing for children, and reiterated the fact the mall was not completed.“It is still not finished and that’s the bottom line. Someone should be held responsible,” Mr Gray said.“People of Bendigo still don’t like it. But in saying that, we have to give it a chance.”Bendigo Mayor Kevin Gibbins said he was pleased that the construction paraphernalia had been cleared.“I’m pleased it is all opened up again and people can move about, it is a good outcome and we are pleased for the traders.“We really appreciate their patience,” he said.Cr Gibbins also said he would raise the prospect of adding some sort of playground, as well as some areas of shade, when councillors held their next informal meeting.“We still need to think about a playground, we will discuss it at the next meeting, we will revisit the idea.”Councillors Lisa Ruffell and Alex Sandner said that it was good traders were able to get better access and the removal of the fences did foster a more welcoming environment.