“We won’t call for any bidding to prevent delays,” assistant government spokesman Colonel Atisit Chaiyanuwat said yesterday.

The Cabinet had already resolved to exempt the project, which will be developed in Klong San in Bangkok, from regulations requiring bids, he said. “We will select the private operator for the project strictly based on conditions that it will prepare proper traffic and environmental management and community development plans. The Treasury Department and the Finance Ministry will review the plans.”

He said the private firm would also be required to spend money left over after developing the observatory tower for “social causes”.

At 459 metres, the tower is expected to be a big new attraction.