Mr Rewat explained to The Phuket News that flaws in the project, including some design errors, had forced changes that delayed progress. The 18-month contract was awarded in late 2023 to Phisit Technology Co Ltd for the landmark skywalk-style attraction at Laem Ta Ma in Cherng Talay.
The Surin Beach project is a centrepiece in the PPAO’s plan to attract more Thai and foreign tourists to Phuket. It features two glass-bottomed observation decks, each more than 33 metres long, and a three-storey viewing tower offering sweeping views over the Andaman Sea.
The site, built on nine rai (14,400sqm) of public land, will also include landscaped walkways, activity areas, a service building and public facilities. The design blends the island’s marine vistas with elements of Phuket’s traditional way of life.
MORE TIME, PLEASE
Mr Rewat stressed that under PPAO regulations, he cannot approve a contract extension himself. “Our contract for the Surin Beach glass balcony construction project expires on the 15th of this month. It’s nearing its expiration date, but there are some flaws in the project itself, requiring an extension,” he said.
“Under the authority of the PPAO, we can’t extend the time ourselves or take the liberty of doing so without first submitting it to the Comptroller General’s Department. They will take 32 days to review and decide whether to grant it. I have no authority to grant or refuse the extension.”
He emphasised that the delays were not entirely the contractor’s fault. “They pointed out the problems, some design errors, and it took time to fix them. Then they requested an extension to complete the project. But I didn’t dare grant or approve the extension myself. I was afraid that if I helped them, I would definitely be investigated by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC),” he explained.
PAST MISTAKES
Mr Rewat said he was determined to avoid mistakes made in other projects, citing a high-profile corruption case as a cautionary example.
“The case of Mr Thaworn Chirapattanasophon, the Phuket Town Deputy Mayor, sentenced to four years in jail for corruption over a Bang Yai Canal construction project,” he said.
“He granted a contract extension without any review or favouring the company for the Phuket City Cultural Canal Development Project. Ultimately, the Deputy Mayor was sentenced to four years in prison. This kind of incident I do not want to happen to me.”
Mr Rewat said the safest course was to let the Comptroller-General decide. “If they allow it, they can grant it. But if they don’t, the company will have to pay the PPAO a B10mn security deposit.”
If the extension is denied, the contractor’s performance guarantee of nearly B10mn will be forfeited. “If they don’t take responsibility, that money will be seized,” Mr Rewat said.
The company is reportedly eager to finish the project, but the completion date will depend on the terms of any approved extension. “If they can extend, how long it will take depends on the company. They have to complete the project quickly. I can’t say when it will be finished,” he added.
LOOKING HIGH IN RAWAI
Meanwhile, the PPAO’s second major landmark project – the Khao Daeng Glass Bridge in Rawai – remains in the study and planning stage. Planned for a site near the Rawai Football Field, the structure is expected to become another major tourist attraction offering panoramic coastal views.
Mr Rewat said the Rawai project will cost “about B200mn”, dismissing recent government reports suggesting a B300mn budget. “It will cost around the same as the Surin skywalk,” he said.
However, before breaking ground in Rawai, the PPAO wants to assess the Surin project’s performance and public reception. “The Khao Daeng Glass Bridge hasn’t even been built yet. There’s planning, a project study, a budget, and meetings. But in the end, we sat down to this meeting to see how successful the Surin Glass Balcony project is and how effective it has been,” he said.
“Before we build in Rawai, we still need to ask the public about their needs and listen to their opinions. So, we’re considering using the Surin Beach glass balcony project as a model and seeing how successful it is.”
Public hearings on the Khao Daeng Glass Bridge project are expected before any construction begins. Mr Rewat has said repeatedly that feedback from residents will be critical in shaping the final design and scope.
The bridge aims to serve as both a tourist draw and a symbol of Phuket’s growing range of coastal attractions. Much like the Surin balcony, it will be marketed as a “check-in” destination for visitors seeking views of the island’s seascapes.
EYES ON SURIN
For now, attention remains on Surin Beach. While officials and contractors alike want to see the project finished and open to the public, the decision rests with the Comptroller-General’s Department.
Mr Rewat acknowledged that delays can frustrate both the public and the project team, but stressed that following proper procedures protects the integrity of the PPAO and its projects.
“We want these to be signature attractions for Phuket,” he said. “But we have to do things the right way. That means no shortcuts, no approvals without proper review.”
Whether the Surin Beach Glass Balcony becomes Phuket’s newest must-visit landmark later this year or slips into 2026 depends on the outcome of the extension review. For the Khao Daeng Glass Bridge, its start date may hinge on how Surin performs once it finally opens.
In the meantime, Mr Rewat said that the PPAO continues to promote its skywalk vision as part of a wider effort to diversify Phuket’s tourism offering beyond its beaches. If successful, these attractions could help cement the island’s place as a leading destination for both Thai and international travellers – offering views that, quite literally, put visitors on top of the world.