I align with @nathen007. We wouldn't want to be eliminating precious natural environments and resources for the sake of rapid urbanization, would we @seancallow? Are there such governing policies in Thailand?

There are very strict laws in Thailand regarding land development - Im surprised you would think it is different than other countries. You cannot build anything anywhere in Thailand without the correct land title. In Phuket only a small percentage of the island can be developed as most of it is protected mountains, beaches and national parkland. Rapid urbanisation is not really happening in Phuket but of course as the island grows people are developing land for residential use. There are strict height restrictions in place and the land department in Phuket is very rigorously enforcing all established protocols.