May 11, 2007
The fact that the Big Wheel at Suan Lum Night Bazaar stopped turning over the Songkran holiday in April, wasn't a sign that activities at the market was finally going to come to a halt too. Despite notice given to vendors to vacate the premises by no later than the end of March, only a few stalls have closed down. As for the rest, it's still business as usual.
The market's close-down is a given, but nobody knows exactly when or are prepared to comment on the issue (due to legal sensitivities). It appears that the market's management company is using legal procedures to temporarily stall the market's close-down, and most traders are clinging to this as a last straw. Here are some facts and rumours to bring you up to speed...
Facts
- The Crown Property Bureau has awarded Central Pattana (CPN) a 30-year lease to develop a 6.4-hectare section of the prestigious land into a 'true centerpiece attraction for Bangkok'. The plan includes a lifestyle complex, world-class shopping facilities, offices and a hotel. It is not yet known what the rest of the land will be used for.
- The land will have to be handed over to CPN by the end of this year for development, according to the contract signed.
- Two prominent notices have been put up. At the bazaar's entrance, a notice from The Crown Property Bureau (who the land belongs to) states: "The Crown Property Bureau has scheduled the area to be closed for redevelopment. Any person who resides and makes use of this property is required to move their belongings and vacate the premises by March 31, 2007, otherwise legal action will be taken". Another big bold banner from traders at the night market and their management company (P Con) ensures visitors that all the shops and stalls will remain open until the court has issued a legal notice for them to move.
- Joe Louis Puppet Theatre, BEC Tero Hall, and Lumpini Boxing Stadium will be relocated.
- The Big Wheel was forced to shut down operations because it was deemed an illegal structure for which the necessary permission was not granted by local authorities.
- The facilities and structures at the market have become increasingly shabby, and many visitors have been complaining about inflated prices and aggressive Patpong-style selling tactics from vendors.
Rumours
- An area close to Chatuchak Weekend Market has been allocated for the night bazaar's new location.
- The Big Wheel has found a new home in Pattaya. However, it still hasn't been dismantled after almost two months. |
