Sanpetch is advancing development of the 765-rai Thanun area, aiming to elevate state assets toward tourism investment and create sustainable economic opportunities for local communities.
On 22 Aug 1993 GMT+7, Sanpetch Boonyamanee, Deputy Minister of Transport, revealed after visiting the Thanun plot in Khok Kloi Subdistrict, Takua Thung District, Phang Nga Province, along with SRTA, that they are pushing forward development of this 765-rai area. The goal is to enhance the efficiency of state asset use and align the land's potential with the tourism development direction of Phang Nga and the Andaman region. Emphasis is placed on developing the area alongside improving the quality of life for residents and communities to achieve balanced, sustainable economic and urban growth.
The Thanun area is considered a location with strong future development potential because it lies near Phuket International Airport (about 20 kilometers away) and approximately 4 kilometers from the planned Andaman Airport project. Additionally, the MR9 motorway route will pass through the area, improving travel convenience and connectivity to surrounding regions, which will further support investment and tourism activities.
Regarding development plans, Sanpetch assigned SRTA to study land utilization approaches, dividing development into zones with potential for commercial growth, consistent with prior studies by the State Railway of Thailand. The focus is on developing hotels and wellness centers along with tourism-related services to increase the value of state assets and support local economic activities while creating jobs and income for nearby residents. This aims to ensure mutually beneficial and sustainable development.
Meanwhile, within the 765-rai area, parts near the Sarasin Bridge are used by local communities. Commercial development approaches will not be applied indiscriminately there; instead, management and development will be tailored to the community’s lifestyle, local conditions, and needs, allowing residents to coexist appropriately with the development.
Coastal area development will prioritize environmental protection by thoroughly studying impacts on coastal ecosystems, communities, and the environment. Development will be designed to suit the area's potential, adhering to sustainable development principles.
Sanpetch stated that the Thanun area's development is not just about increasing state asset value but also ensuring benefits for local people and communities. The land has potential to become a tourism hub, hotel zone, and wellness center, which will create economic opportunities, jobs, and income for locals, while encouraging community participation and growth alongside development. The key is to ensure "area, people, and city" grow together in balance, considering community context and environmental factors to achieve appropriate and sustainable benefits for all stakeholders.
Next, SRTA will further study the development approach and concepts in detail, including suitability, investment models, economics, environment, and community impacts and needs, to define appropriate land management strategies before proceeding with legal, regulatory, and procedural reviews.