In a recent decision by the Committee for Regulatory Affairs and Traffic, it has been determined that the Thai Park will no longer be permitted to operate within Berlin's Preußenpark. This decision, confirmed by Simon Hertel, the chairman of the CDU faction in Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf, sets the stage for a final vote by the Borough Assembly (BVV) scheduled for Thursday.
After much uncertainty, the Thai street food market in Preußenpark is set to relocate. The decision, made Tuesday evening, paves the way for a two-year interim location in Württembergische Straße adjacent to Preußenpark, with a permanent move to the sidewalks of Barstraße and parts of Fehrbelliner Platz slated for 2026.
Once a humble gathering spot for affordable street food and the Thai community, the Thai Park has evolved into a regulated and professionalized market. However, violations of park regulations and complaints from residents have prompted calls for relocation from both the CDU and Green parties.
Simon Hertel highlighted issues of littering and damage to green spaces, emphasizing that parks are not designed for such activities. The temporary relocation to Württembergische Straße aligns with plans to revamp Preußenpark in two years, necessitating a move for the stalls regardless. The new location at Fehrbelliner Platz, already home to a weekly market and flea market, aims to cultivate a "sustainable market concept" according to Hertel, positioning it as "our district's marketplace."
Despite efforts to preserve the Thai market's current location, evidenced by an open letter from the Thai Association in Berlin with support from 41,000 individuals, the impending move appears inevitable. The association argues that the proposed relocation sites would likely introduce new challenges and fail to replicate the unique atmosphere and charm of Preußenpark.