THE CREATIVE AREA DEVELOPMENT IN THE OLD TOWN IN SONGKHLA PROVINCE

Abstract

The research aimed to study: 1) An analysis of the body of knowledge on creative space development in the old town area of Songkhla Province; 2) The development of the area about creative participation within the old town; and 3) The strengthening of partnerships for creative space development in the old town. This qualitative research employed in-depth interviews with 25 key informants, including religious leaders (senior monks in the area), community representatives (local scholars, residents, and tour guides), government and private sector organizations involved in cultural preservation, provincial cultural officers, academics, and conservationists. The action research target groups comprised 30 participants, including senior monks, students, study tour participants, community leaders, local tour guides, scholars, academics, and conservation groups. The sample was selected using purposive sampling, focusing on individuals involved in creative space development in the old town area. Research tools included interview guides, observation forms, and focus group discussion records. The research findings revealed that: 1) The body of knowledge on creative space development emphasizes the preservation of historical sites, architectural heritage, and local cultural traditions, reflecting the community’s way of life and maintaining the distinct identity of Songkhla Old Town (Singora); 2) Creative space development in the old town involves four key aspects: infrastructure improvement, safety enhancement, organization of visitor access to key sites, environmental development, and fostering community participation; and 3) The strengthening of partnerships for creative space development is driven by collaboration among three main groups: government agencies, the private sector, and local communities.