PHUKET: CHINESE entrepreneurs revealed for the first time their plan for a high-cost waterpark in Patong, Phuket's most popular tourist destination.

The group has 20 rai of land down the hill close to Nanai Road and will construct the waterpark on half that real estate, Vice Governor Somkiet Sangaosutthirak was told in a meeting this afternoon.

''We are very happy to support the project in every way,'' the vice governor told the group from China. ''Many tourists come to Phuket and the more choices that Phuket can offer them in terms of activities, the better.''

It was the first time the group had come to Phuket, although the property was purchased some years ago.

Property observers on Phuket suspected Patong would never have a waterpark because the price of land in the west coast destination has risen astronomically and is in great demand for resorts.

Phuket's first waterpark, the West Sands Splash Jungle, officially opened at Mai Khao, north of Phuket International Airport, on January 30, 2010.

While the water park has a large property development attached, it is a long way from Phuket's main southern and central population centres.

A waterpark in Patong could expect to be extremely popular, provided prices are not pitched too high.

No details were revealed about the waterpark - but the group did tell Vice Governor Somkiet that they have one water park in China already.

Today's meeting took place at Provincial Hall in Phuket City.