PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya City has ordered the suspension of use of the Waterfront building near Bali Hai Pier after concerns over land rights, while warning tourists against using an unauthorized parking area in front of the building.
Pattaya Deputy Mayor Manot Nongyai said the city had issued an order suspending use of the Waterfront building after questions arose over the ownership and legal status of the land.
Despite the order, people have continued entering the building, parking vehicles on the second floor and using the open area in front of the building for parking.
Manot said the land in front of the building had previously been handed over to Pattaya City by its former holder, who relinquished the rights. However, another person later claimed the former occupancy rights and began using the area as a parking facility. The city is preparing to take legal action to clarify its rights over the land and prevent unauthorized use.
Regarding reports that motorists were being charged parking fees, Manot said city officials had inspected the area and found that vehicles were moved out when officers arrived. However, the vehicles were brought back after officials left. He said taking legal action against vehicles parked at the site could potentially affect tourists who owned the vehicles, creating difficulties for enforcement.
Pattaya City has now installed signs prohibiting the use of the area and will proceed with legal measures to resolve the dispute. The city is advising residents and tourists travelling to Koh Larn or using services around Bali Hai Pier to park instead at the designated “Blue Parking Lot,” where parking is provided free of charge.
