Federal environment review comment period tight for Gnarabup resort and village proposal

Residents wanting to comment on the latest environmental review of the proposed Westin Margaret River Resort & Spa and its associated village development have until only Tuesday. A snap Federal Government review period was called late last week to consider the Saracen Property Group-led proposal’s potential effects on the natural environment and critically endangered species, and whether to consider assessment at the Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water’s highest level. The Shire of Augusta-Margaret River council also voted last week to make a comment during the submission window after the matter was flagged by Preserve Gnarabup member and former councillor Lyn Serventy. The DCCEEW review was one of multiple environmental assessments of the proposal. Preserve Gnarabup has argued species including the western ringtail possum, endangered Carnaby’s and Baudin’s cockatoos, and vulnerable quokkas and quendas were at risk from the development. The sightings of wildlife were backed by the protest group’s own consultant.