More large projects, more concerns

Plans for large-scale hotel and condominium developments in Phuket are facing increasing scrutiny from officials and growing criticism from local residents concerned about zoning violations, environmental impacts, and inadequate community consultation.

- The Phuket News

One of the most high-profile projects under review is the proposed Nebu Resort & Hotel Phuket in Cherng Talay. The project was recently sent back for further review after Phuket’s environmental expert committee raised questions about its community engagement process and its Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report.

The issue was discussed last week during the 4th meeting of the Expert Committee on Environmental Impact Assessment Report Consideration in Environmental Protection Areas for 2025. The meeting, chaired by Phuket Vice Governor Samawit Suphanphai, called for more information before a final decision can be made.

The Nebu Resort project had already been ordered to halt construction in February after local residents raised concerns over potential zoning violations, environmental risks, and a possibly flawed EIA process. The seven-story hotel is planned for Pasak Soi 6, an area classified as a low-density residential ‘Yellow Zone’. The project is now under official investigation, with a parliamentary committee examining claims of improper approvals and insufficient community consultation.