Land Management Minister Chea Sophara and Tourism Minister Thong Khon met yesterday to discuss the development of beaches surrounding Sihanoukville.

Speaking to reporters following the meeting, the deputy secretary of the National Committee for Cambodian Bay Management and Development, Ny Phally, said it was decided that beaches will be reclassified under three designations: state-managed public beaches, state-managed public beaches with private-sector participation and state-run luxury resort beaches.

Phally said plans were also discussed to update regulations governing entertainment provided by beachfront businesses, as well as guidelines for the monitoring of the beaches’ upkeep.

The development of Otres and Royal beaches in Sihanoukville has been in discussion for years, with beach vendors and businesses currently facing eviction to make way for it.

Phally elaborated on development plans yesterday, saying authorities will coordinate with vendors on the beach, adding that funding would be drawn from private sponsors, with Sophara, Khon and Environment Minister Say Samal slated to be the first three.