Pattaya Awaits Land Office Verdict on Controversial Waterfront Condominium
Pattaya City is awaiting a crucial ruling from the Department of Lands that will determine the fate of the long-disputed Waterfront Condominium—whether it will be demolished or given a chance at revival.
Mayor Poramase Ngampichet recently provided an update on the legal battle that has plagued the project for over a decade. The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has raised concerns over the legitimacy of the land title deed on which the building stands, prompting Pattaya City to refer the matter to the Department of Lands for verification.
If the department rules that the title deed was issued unlawfully, the city will be required to demolish the structure, as the land would be classified as public property. In such a scenario, the project owner will be summoned to remove the building. Should the owner fail to comply, Pattaya City will carry out the demolition and seek reimbursement for the costs. The developer may also pursue legal action against the seller who allegedly transferred public land under an improper title.
Conversely, if the Department of Lands deems the title deed valid, Bali Hai Co., the developer behind the Waterfront project, will be permitted to resume construction. However, the company must first submit a revised building plan for approval in compliance with local regulations. Any future development will require significant modifications, particularly in terms of height, to adhere to environmental impact assessment (EIA) regulations and address concerns about obstructing the iconic nearby viewpoint.
Mayor Poramase assured the public that regardless of the final decision, the height of the building will be reduced to mitigate controversy. A resolution is expected soon, as the issue has been raised in parliamentary discussions, with the Minister of Interior delegating the matter to the Deputy Minister for a formal response. The Department of Lands has been instructed to expedite the review process, as the abandoned building has remained an eyesore and a subject of public complaints for over a decade.
