Phuket Gateway to get some much-needed love

PHUKET: The dilapidated, mostly ignored Phuket Gateway in Mai Khao is slated for a facelift, confirmed officials.

“The renovation is necessary to make the site more attractive, so that it becomes a popular stopping point for tourists on the island,” said Phuket Vice Governor Prajiad Aksornthammakul.

The Phuket Provincial Administration Organization (PPAO) started building the Phuket Gateway, just before the Tah Chat Chai checkpoint, in 2006.

The facility consists of a conference room, an exhibition room, an office area and a tourist center. There are also a number of concrete sculptures, including a giant turtle shell and turtle eggs.

“It was designed to be a wonderful place to welcome tourists to the island. The renovations will see us decorate the 29 columns designed to represent the multicultural nature of Phuket,” Vice Governor Prajiad said.

“We will also look at putting more useful equipment and comfortable furniture inside the facility, as well as support local villagers hawking their goods.”

The renovation plans are at an early stage, V/Gov Prajiad noted.

“We will update the public with more details as they become available.”

— Sukawin Tanthavanich