The air force will open up some of its facilities and golf courses for public use, but access will be conditional, said commander-in-chief, ACM Punpakdee Pattanakul.
This clarification came after he agreed to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's request to give up the force's Kantarat Golf Course located between runways of Don Mueang airport and allow access to some of its other properties to develop state projects.
In addition to Kantarat Golf Course, the premier also sought the air force's cooperation in permitting the development of the nearby Dhupatemiya Stadium Golf Course into a sports complex. Mr Srettha is also seeking access through the Wing 1 facilities for use by the adjacent commercial airport in Nakhon Ratchasima and constructing a ring road through Wing 41 to relieve traffic jams in downtown Chiang Mai.
The prime minister said a panel of relevant bodies will study the issue.
On Monday, ACM Punpakdee explained issues surrounding access through the air force properties will need to be fleshed out before any projects can proceed.
Kantarat Golf Course in Don Mueang district, Bangkok. (Google Maps)
Mr Srettha earlier said he wanted Kantarat Golf Course to serve the government's plan to expand and upgrade Don Mueang airport.
ACM Punpakdee said that the sections of the golf course the government intends to utilise must be established first. "That will need a detailed discussion on the condition that the air force still retains its full ownership of the golf course," he said.
As for the Wing 41 plan, if motorists are allowed to enter the base, they might have to register with the air force, and background checks might also be performed. Vehicles going into a security zone will also face inspection. The base where the ring road will cut through will also be fenced off and security cameras installed, he added.