Public Outcry Freezes Controversial Phuket Hotel Project

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Photo courtesy of The Phuket News

 

In a dramatic turn of events, the Nebu Hotel project in Cherng Talay, Phuket, has been put on hold following mounting pressure from locals worried about its environmental and community impact. The proposed seven-story hotel, planned on a narrow 1,200-square-meter plot, was set in a Yellow Zone, intended for low-density housing, sparking debates over zoning violations and transparency.

 

During a tense site visit, Phuket MP Thitikan Thitipruethikul and members of the House Committee on Land, Natural Resources, and Environment, voiced concerns over the legality of allowing a high-rise in a restricted area. “Yellow Zones should not host high-density projects. This violates zoning laws and could set a dangerous precedent for Phuket,” warned Thitikan.

 

Residents fear the development will worsen traffic, increase flood risks, and lead to excessive noise, particularly from a planned rooftop bar. Concerns also arose over inadequate parking—20 spaces for 89 rooms could lead to traffic nightmares in the already narrow streets.

 

The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) claimed 70% public approval, but locals strongly disagreed, presenting their survey showing 100% opposition. “We just want a proper impact assessment,” a resident insisted.

 

 

Poonsak Chanchampi, chairman of the House Committee, criticized the zoning inconsistencies and the lack of public hearings in the approval process. “In Bangkok, this wouldn't even be considered due to land size restrictions. Phuket needs consistent rules,” Poonsak argued, suggesting central government oversight to reduce conflicts of interest.

 

In response, Aphichat Deekongsiang of Cherng Talay's OrBorTor agreed to review the EIA and assured no construction permit would be issued until issues are resolved.

 

As public scrutiny grows, a fourth community meeting is planned for March 13, offering locals another chance to express concerns. The House Committee has urgently called for a re-evaluation of the EIA process and a temporary halt on construction, hoping for more transparent urban planning in Phuket’s future, reported The Thaiger.

 

-- 2025-02-26