Abstract:
The objectives of this study are: (1) to study the uniqueness of Bang Pla Ma Community of Kao Hong Market and factors that diminished its roles as an old community center of the agricultural areas: (2) to study problems of the community and to analyse it's potential in conserving the physical characteristics of the area; and (3) to propose the appropriate measures so as to conserve and develop the physical and the socio-economic aspects of the community. The results of the study shows that an outstanding aspect of the old community is the relationship between the community environment and housing location, lifestyles, activities, and the local people. These are presented through the architectural styles, settlements, and traditions in which Ban Kao Hong was a trade center on Tha Chin river. Due to the road construction, the river is no longer the only means of transport. Therefore, Ban Kao Hong market has been diminished its function as the commercial center of the surrounding agricultural areas. As a result, the economy of the community was declined and the traditional ways of life have been changed. In conclusion, the study recommend to conserve and develop Ban Pla Ma Community of Kao Hong Market by the following measures: (1) to conserve and improve the physical environment by controlling land use, formulating the appropriate architectural styles, developing open space and walkways, conserving the canals and Than Chin river and developing the community infrastructure; (2) to Kao Hong market as a means of tourist promotion (3) to promote people participation in conserving the identity of their communities