Convention Center site vote this Friday

PHUKET: A final decision on the location for the proposed new International Convention and Exhibition Center (ICEC) will be made this Friday by popular vote. Four places are in the running. Two are in Phuket Town – Saphan Hin and a site opposite Suan Luang Park. The other two are at Khao Khad, overlooking Ao Makham; and at Tah Chat Chai, just south of the Sarasin Bridge Because of fierce support from all quarters for each of the locations, Governor CEO Pongpayome Vasaputi decided that a debate followed by a vote will be held at the Phuket Government Financial Center on Narisorn Rd this Friday, starting at 9 am. He has invited heads of government departments, community leaders and leaders of business organizations to attend, argue their cases, and vote. There has been considerable opposition to the idea of building the ICEC at Saphan Hin because it is already a community area. Opponents argue that, if the center were built there, it would prevent the building of further sports and other facilities for young people. The Suan Luang Park proposal has come under fire because of fears that the ICEC would aggravate the already congested traffic conditions on Chao Fa Rd. Asked for his opinion, the Governor would not name a favorite. “I don’t mind; it depends on Friday’s vote.” However, he added, “If they want to choose a beautiful site they should choose Khao Khad because it has a commanding view of the sea. But if they want convenience of transportation they should choose Tah Chat Chai.” Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, during his recent visit to Phuket, promised funding for the ICEC as soon as its location is decided.