The controversial $138 million Westin Margaret River Spa & Resort proposal has cleared a significant hurdle, receiving environmental approval from the Western Australian government. This decision paves the way for the luxury development in Gnarabup, located 8km southwest of Margaret River, to proceed to the next stage of planning.
A Major Step Forward for the Luxury Development
Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn granted approval for the project on Tuesday, marking a crucial milestone in its journey toward final development consent. The five-star resort and village complex is planned to include 121 hotel rooms, 51 beach houses, 25 apartments, four townhouses, a general store, and a cafe.
Local Opposition and Environmental Concerns
The development has faced sustained opposition from community groups and environmental advocates since its inception. Preserve Gnarabup spokesperson Beth Carlessi expressed disappointment at the decision, describing it as disheartening but not unexpected.
"Our community is very disappointed by the Cook Government's decision today," Ms Carlessi stated. "This important environmental site on our tiny safe town swimming beach is central to community life in Margaret River."
Local opponents have raised multiple concerns about the project:
- Potential damage to the fragile karst limestone environment
- Increased bushfire risks due to potential road congestion during emergencies
- Negative impacts on local amenity and community character
- Questioning the adequacy of environmental conditions attached to approvals
Regulatory Process and Government Defense
The project was initially approved with conditions by the Environmental Protection Authority in May 2025, but appeals from community groups delayed the process. The Augusta Margaret River Shire council had formally opposed the development in 2022.
Deputy Premier Rita Saffioti defended the approval process, stating that Western Australia has achieved an appropriate balance between environmental protection and development.
"I know that EPA has gone through a very proper process," Ms Saffioti said. "I think something that the State has done very well is manage the environmental considerations with development."
Next Steps for the Project
With environmental approval secured, the Saracen Group's proposal will now proceed to the Western Australian Planning Commission for development approval assessment. If successful at this stage, construction of the luxury tourism resort and village can commence.
The decision represents a significant development in the ongoing tension between tourism expansion and environmental conservation in Western Australia's prized Margaret River region.
