Phuket Prison to Park: A Verdant New Chapter Unfolds

Photo courtesy of The Phuket News

Phuket's historic prison is set for a major transformation! The old Phuket Prison, one of Thailand’s oldest penal institutions, is being resurrected as a vibrant public park in the heart of Phuket Town, a project spearheaded by the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO).

This exciting redevelopment spans a 33-rai site and aims to create a recreational haven with an observation tower, multipurpose pavilion, pagoda, and a 300-vehicle parking facility to help ease traffic congestion downtown. Contractors have begun levelling the area and fortifying the prison’s historical walls.

Sayan Kaewsringam, the project manager from SPM 5988 Co Ltd, shared that pile-driving for the observation tower is underway, with more heavy machinery coming next week for other significant constructions.

Backed by newly re-elected PPAO President Rewat Areerob, this initiative is part of a broader mission to boost green spaces and enrich Phuket's urban environment. Set to be completed by the end of 2025, the park is anticipated to become the “lungs of Phuket Town.”

The transition began back in November 2022, with the demolition of the prison walls, and received a funding approval of 169.5 million baht in June 2023.

Built over 120 years ago, the prison remains a critical historical landmark. Former Prison Commander Krisana Thipayachan highlights its significance as a relic of Thailand's penal past. Although not used for inmate detention anymore, parts of the facility will be preserved as a “live museum” and eco-tourism attraction, offering visitors insights into historical correctional practices.

In addition, the site will become an educational hub about Thailand’s justice system and a vocational training centre for inmates, aiding their transition back into society, reported The Thaiger.