Clock Tower Area Set for Redevelopment Amid Stallholder Relocation
PUBLISHED: 19 Feb 2025
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has mandated that 529 stallholders near the clock tower at Chatuchak Weekend Market vacate their premises by April 30 to facilitate a significant redevelopment plan.
This directive was communicated during a briefing led by market office officials who highlighted their commitment to transparency regarding market management and responded to concerns about vendor contract renewals.
Market office chairman emphasized that the decision to not renew contracts was part of a larger strategy to enhance the area, which has faced complaints due to reduced pathway space and obstructed storefronts.
In response to allegations regarding improper rent collection, the chairman assured the public that all collected fees were properly documented and remitted to the BMA’s finance division. Monthly rental fees for stalls are set at 1,800 baht for permanent stalls, 1,400 baht for green stalls, and 900 baht for tree and plant stalls.
The BMA pays an annual fee of 169 million baht for the land, which is owned by the State Railway of Thailand. Recent downturns in revenue due to the pandemic led to adjustments in fees and the temporary suspension of some payments from vendors.
Despite difficulties, additional income streams have been introduced, including management and vending fees. The market office has the authority to cancel rental agreements and adjust penalties for late payments, countering claims of excessive fines.
In light of ongoing concerns, affected vendors petitioned local authorities for an investigation into the market office’s practices. While the BMA plans to revitalize the clock tower area to enhance its appeal as a tourist destination, they have extended the stallholders’ operation until the end of April to allow for a smoother transition.
Stallholders in good standing have been offered alternative spaces within the market, with fees waived for relocating; however, only a small number accepted this offer. Of the 529 stallholders impacted by the upcoming changes, 122 are in arrears, prompting contract cancellations and potential legal action to recover outstanding debts.
