In courthouse kerfuffle, hubris reigns supreme

COMMENTARY

In courthouse kerfuffle, hubris reigns supreme

Published: 14 Dec 2012 at 00.00
Newspaper section: News

If you still don't know this, it's about time you did: We are losing the old Supreme Court building, a vintage structure that is part of our national heritage. It is being quietly demolished.

The demolition, by the order of court authorities, is to pave the way for a new, much larger structure. The plan has attracted criticism from conservationists and historians alike.

In their opinion, the courthouse, constructed in the era of the Pibulsonggram government in 1939 to celebrate the return of Thailand's judicial sovereignty, is worth preserving for its historical and architectural significance.

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joe_blow
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Discussion 4 : 14 Dec 2012 at 11.384
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Thailand should have a method or for preserving it's national identity (cultural and historic heritage), similar to the UN program that designates world heritage preservation sites and the US program that designates national historic monument sites. Any site awarded such a designation cannot be demolished or renovated in a way that's inconsistent with it's original design and purpose.
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jacksprat
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Discussion 3 : 14 Dec 2012 at 09.223
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"As well as being cheaper, this option means that the national heritage building can be preserved." And that is the reason it must go - much more money to be made in destroying it and creating another modern monstrosity.
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Ian
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Discussion 2 : 14 Dec 2012 at 07.332
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A complete rebuilt cost more than a renovation, more money means bigger kickbacks.
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bennu
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Discussion 1 : 14 Dec 2012 at 03.491
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Mostly when the interior leaves to be desired, the exterior becomes more important.
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In courthouse kerfuffle, hubris reigns supreme | Bangkok Post: opinion