Building fever threatens heritage

PHNOM PENH Phnom Penh authorities are discussing how to preserve historical buildings in the capital city as real estate developers clear sites to make way for high-rise buildings.

Khmer Times quoted Phnom Penh governor, Pa Socheatvong, saying meetings have discussed ways to protect the architectural heritage of Phnom Penh, but critics say it maybe too late as regulations and zoning laws remain weak, or ignored by wealthy investors.

“National and local governments will create a master plan to conserve Phnom Penh by limiting the number of high-rise buildings surrounding urban heritage sites between now and 2030.”

He said: “Some heritage buildings along with old buildings are privately owned property and as the value of real estate rises in the city…owners cash in and redevelop sites.”

Heritage sites linked to Buddhism, former palaces and government buildings that have been turned into museums are protected, but buildings that date back to the colonial era under the rule of the French are often ignored, or not recognised as part of the city’s heritage. Traditional Chinese shop houses, old markets and residences along the riverside boulevard also require zoning and protection if Phnom Penh is to maintain its charm and differentiate it from other Southeast Asian cities.

Heritage sites in Phnom Penh include the National Museum, Central Market and Post and Telecommunication Ministry, survived the brutal Khmer Rouge regime that destroyed, or severely damaged many buildings,  but the challenge now is to ensure they survive the inroads of commercialism.

Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts Spokesman, Thai Norak Satya, was quoted saying that the ministry previously drafted a sub-decree aimed at preserving the remaining French colonial-era and 1960s-era buildings throughout the country.

“We will preserve all remaining buildings from the French time and other buildings over 60 years old that we treat as heritage buildings. The Battambang Provincial Hall and Phnom Penh City Hall are heritage buildings from the French time as well.”

Due to the building boom in Phnom Penh, experts have warned that more regulations are needed to prevent high-rises buildings from damaging the character of the city.

Phnom Penh is not as popular as Siem Reap, but there are efforts underway to improve its tourism appeal. However, many of the colonial style buildings have been torn down to make way for modern office buildings and residences.

Currently, there are some regulations that limit construction near important sites, such as Wat Phnom and the Royal Palace. A recent guideline limits the height of new buildings in the area near these landmarks

Last year, the country welcomed 4.77 million international tourists increasing 6.1% from 4.50 million visits in 2014. The top 10 market sources were Vietnam, China, Laos, South Korea, Thailand, the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, Malaysia and France.