Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn backs Gnarabup development, knocks back all but one appeal claim

A controversial luxury resort proposed for the Margaret River region has been given a crucial boost by the Environment Minister, who has backed the EPA’s approval as local groups extend their decades-long fight against it. The $138 million, five-star Westin Margaret River Spa & Resort proposal in Gnarabup — about 8km south west of Margaret River — was given the green light in May by the Environmental Protection Agency, a decision later appealed, forcing it into minister Matthew Swinbourn’s hands. The project by Saracen Group is set to feature 121 rooms, 51 beach houses, 25 apartments, four townhouses, a general store, and a cafe. Mr Swinbourn earlier this month upheld the EPA’s decision, dismissing six of the seven appeal grounds completely. He did partially uphold one, placing another requirement to better protect western ringtail possums. The Minister’s signature was the last step for getting environmental approval, but the proposal will still need to go through planning processes before it gets the final green light. The fight comes as tourism demand is at an all time high in WA’s south west with direct flights from Sydney and Melbourne to Busselton delivering thousands more visitors to the region. Demand remains high for short term holiday homes despite State and local Governments looking to crack down on the sector to boost long-term housing stock. There are more than 3000 short-term rentals according to State Government figures, the most of any of the regions. The move is likely to further anger community groups, who say they have opposed the development for more than 30 years. Surfrider Southwest’s Preserve Gnarabup campaign spokesperson Beth Carlessi said the proposal would have lasting impact for the environment and amenity of the area. “Given the significant environmental, economic, social, and safety concerns, we respectfully ask that the Minister refuses this development,” she said. “Once developed, the special qualities of this unique and much loved area — an invaluable asset for the community, wildlife, and tourism – will be lost forever.” The group was also critical of the developer’s studies, arguing they had not been done to a “high standard”. Despite the one recommended change, the Minister’s decision noted the studies were still “adequate”. It’s far from the first coastal project in the South West which has drawn the ire of locals. A proposal by Fini Group for a hotel accommodation and wellness centre at Smiths Beach has sparked sustained backlash from locals. The development is still being assessed by the EPA but the proponents were forced to remove a access ramp dubbed a seawall by detractors earlier this year following backlash.