A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the award of the degree of Master of Science

Thesis (M.Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology,1989

One of the important issue in urban conservation is the economic development in conservation precinct. The argument is that the improper development will destroy historic value in the old town which is considered as national heritage. In the case of Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, it is needed to guide future development in commercial areas in the old town - Ratanakosin Island to remain the beautiful perspective whereas the dynamic of Economic activity can continue. The study aims to explore the recent situation of an old commercial and the most sensitive area in Ratanakosin Island Bang Lamphu as well as to propose development trend in the future which can help maintain its high economic performance and retain the spirrit of old town simultaneously. It is found that Bang Lamphu has a strong potential in economic development and its physical condition can be improved by way of rehabilitation, redevelopment, and even conservation which depends on the existing attributes in each specific zone. The study of regulatory framework and administrative issue in Bangkok city planning are also included as a second analysis to point out the possible way of plan implementation. It is also found that local building control regulations the only mechanism to encourage the proposed plan implementation. Therefore, the amendment of existing building regulation by way of positive control and the change in administrative line of permission procedure are suggested in this study.