Bangkok: The Cabinet has approved the draft announcement of the Ministry of Interior regarding the enforcement of the Thap Kwang Community Urban Plan in Saraburi Province. This announcement, revealed by Deputy Government Spokesman Mr. Karom Polpornklang, marks a significant step toward implementing the updated town planning strategy. The Ministry of Interior has incorporated feedback from the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and the Ministry of Industry to refine the plan.
According to Thai News Agency, the previous Ministerial Regulation for the Thap Kwang Community Town Plan, initiated in B.E. 2550 and concluded in 2555, required an evaluation due to increased population and land usage beyond initial projections. The assessment indicated that there were significant deviations in land use, particularly in rural and agricultural areas. Additionally, transport projects outlined in the original plan had not been implemented. The updated plan acknowledges the potential for development in Thap Kwang Subdistrict, which includes important infrastructure like Mittraphap Road and a railway, enhancing the area's capacity for growth.
To align with the evaluation findings, the plan has been revised to transform 929.81 rai of rural and agricultural land into low-density residential land. This change addresses existing residential developments and anticipates future growth. The permissible use of rural and agricultural land for other activities has been adjusted from 10 percent to 15 percent. The plan also incorporates new standards for roads and transportation systems, in line with the Department of Public Works and Town and Country Planning.
Mr. Karom further explained that the Ministry of Interior's draft announcement aims to enforce the Comprehensive Plan across Thap Kwang Subdistrict, Kaeng Khoi District, and Mittraphap Subdistrict, Muak Lek District, covering approximately 121.40 square kilometers. This plan serves as a guideline for urban and rural development, focusing on land use, transportation, public utilities, services, and environmental conservation. It aligns with the National Economic and Social Development Plan, promoting efficient land use, transportation networks, and public services. The plan also aims to support urban communities as centers for manufacturing and services, develop residential and commercial areas, and conserve cultural and environmental resources.
The land use plan categorizes areas into 12 distinct types, including low-density residential, high-density commercial and residential, industrial, rural and agricultural, and others dedicated to recreation, education, cultural conservation, and public services. Each category defines the appropriate business activities and types of factories permissible on the land. The plan also outlines land use in accordance with transportation projects. The Ministry of Interior has followed all procedures as per the Town Planning Act 2019, and the Town Planning Committee has given its approval.