Abstract:
The objectives of this research are to study the development, development process and factors affecting the spatial development of Thewet District; to study the identity, potentiality, problem and development trend of area; and to propose the suitable spatial development guidelines for Thewet District in the future. The development of the district are divided into 4 periods-rural agriculture, construction of the transport network, land use changes and change from modern developments. The research found that the development of Thewet District in the past was closely tied to waterways: They were used to support settlements, consumptions and transportation. The area has been gradually affected by modern development, especially transportation development which has caused major changes in human settlement patterns and land use. At the same time, government plans and policies have affected population growth and the expansion of infrastructures and land utilization. Thus, Thewet District has changed from residential communities centered by market places, temples, and palaces in the past to commercial area surrounded by government offices, educational institutions, and residential communities. The factors affecting the spatial development of the area are: 1) social, economic, and political conditions; 2) natural and physical environment; 3) technology, i.e., transportation system and new buildings; 4) history including the early settlement patterns, attraction and difficulty of settlement, culture, religion, and value. The study proposes that the role of Thewet District in the future should be mixed commercial and residential area. Food market and plant market should be main commercial activities of area, Government offices and educational institutions within the area could help strengthen the district role. The proposed spatial development guidelines include conservation, economic development, promotion of the markets, social relief, decongestion, and promotion of cultural tourism.