A few months ago the Bangkok Post ran an article about a particular street in Rattanakosin. As I recall, the buildings on this street were slated for demolition for subsequent redevelopment. The residents rebelled, managed to save the old buildings and did their own rennovation turning the neighborhood into what looked like a very pleasant place in the accompanying photo: newly paved street, nice plants and trees, interesting outdoor cafe's etc.

Can anyone tell me just where this street is? I'd like to visit on my next trip to the city.

TIA

If I remember correctly, isn't this an old customs house close to the French embassy alongside the river?

If I remember correctly, isn't this an old customs house close to the French embassy alongside the river?

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Nah, the old customs house is still being used as a fire station. Shame, really, as it is a lovely old building....

Edit: Or, have I misidentified this building?

Nah, the old customs house is still being used as a fire station. Shame, really, as it is a lovely old building....

Edit: Or, have I misidentified this building?

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This is the picture of the old customs house and not the place you are talking about right?

Nah, the old customs house is still being used as a fire station. Shame, really, as it is a lovely old building....

Edit: Or, have I misidentified this building?

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This is the picture of the old customs house and not the place you are talking about right?

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Yes, this building faces the river. In front of it is a shed which houses a bunch of fire trucks and a few firboats are moored out in front. The bulding itself seems to be housing for fire crews (and their families?).

The place I'm trying to find is further up the river on Rattanakosin Island.

I recall reading something about the area around Tha Tien being renovated. Its basically old shophouses but a truly atmospheric place.

I wonder if this part of BKKs heritage was to be removed for yet another shopping mall or 5* hotel/condo in Thaksin's vision for BKK so applauded by some members of this board.

Or could it be the park where Fort Phra Sumen is located in Banglamphoo near Khaosan? I think I read in the post this park will be redeveloped although it's unlikely they ever planned demolition of the fort...

BTW isn't the old customs house also waiting for demolition to be developed into another five stars, riverside hotel?

Thanks P. Fart. I believe Tha Tien is correct. Ms. Buadhai and I are planning a walking tour of the area when we visit in December. I'll get some photos.

And, Nordlys, I believe you're correct about the Customs building. It would be a shame to lose this lovely old structure and the surrounding buildings, though. I think there is a proposal to at least retain the old colonial facade. At least that would be something....

A few months ago the Bangkok Post ran an article about a particular street in Rattanakosin. As I recall, the buildings on this street were slated for demolition for subsequent redevelopment. The residents rebelled, managed to save the old buildings and did their own rennovation turning the neighborhood into what looked like a very pleasant place in the accompanying photo: newly paved street, nice plants and trees, interesting outdoor cafe's etc.

Can anyone tell me just where this street is? I'd like to visit on my next trip to the city.

TIA

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Turns out the place is Trok Phra Chan Klang, a small sub-soi near Thammasat U. Looks like this: