I don't think it's a bad idea to have the option of privacy for mums who prefer it. Some mums really don't like bfing in public, especially if they have more difficulty being discreet like mums with large breasts, feeding twins or using nipple shields. However I don't like the idea that mums aren't welcome to bf in the open area if they prefer it.
:yeahthat: I'd have said "Oh, thanks, but I'm fine here" and carried on with my business. I assume that the feeding areas are there for those that want them... not because that's the only place to feed, ITMS?