Chonburi officials are trying to make it more difficult
to open bars and entertainment venues in Sriracha and 10 other districts to
prevent alcohol from being sold near schools and crowded residential
neighborhoods.
Gov. Khomsan Ekachai presided over the Sept. 17 meeting to tighten zoning
laws in Central Chonburi, Sriracha, Phanthong and eight Chonburi districts.
Pattaya was not included in the discussion.
Chonburi Gov. Khomsan Ekachai is
pledging to prevent alcohol from being sold near schools and crowded
residential neighborhoods in 10 Chonburi districts.
Khomsan said that entertainment venues have gotten around
existing legal prohibitions by simply getting a zoning permit from the
province, then applying for a liquor license from the Excise Department. The
result has been an increase in bars, nightclubs and adult businesses around
Burapha, Sripathum and Kasetsart universities and Eastern Technology
College.
By relying on powers granted by the State Administration Act of 1992 and
Alcohol Beverage Control Act of 2008, Chonburi believes it can close
loopholes and require all new businesses to be inspected to determine if
they are planning entertainment venues in prohibited areas.
Inspections will be made by a committee set up by the province, with
officers determining whether the business is fit for permission.
Those found to have violated zoning laws will be fined and or imprisoned,
the governor pledged, and the businesses would be closed. (CPRD)
