The Project is being developed on an undeveloped 50 hectare coastal landplot and will comprise of 100+ luxury beachfront and hillside guest rooms and associated amenities, infrastructure and utilities. In summary, the scope for the works for the study included desk study, environmental/ecological/socioeconomic baseline studies, stakeholder engagement, impact identification/evaluation and the preparation of an Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan (EMMP) for the construction and operational phases of the project.

Sensitive terrestrial, intertidal and marine habitats are present within the Area of Influence (AOI) of the Project and the IEE study included a detailed ecological survey and biodiversity impact assessment. Threatened species were identified ‘likely present’ in the Project Site Area and the EMMP contained measures to avoid, reduce and or otherwise mitigate the potential adverse impacts to sensitive flora and fauna species.

Two communities are situated within the AOI of the project and interviews and focus group discussions were held in the local communities to profile the prevailing socioeconomic conditions in the Project Site Area and identify any potential sensitivities and specific needs within the local communities.

Monitoring equipment was erected at sensitive locations within the neighbouring communities to determine the baseline ambient air quality and noise levels.  Soil, surface water, groundwater and marine water samples were also collected for laboratory analysis for a broad range of parameters.

The positive and adverse impacts associated with the construction and operation of the project were assessed and robust impact mitigation measures were developed for all significant adverse impacts along with a monitoring plan to verify (or otherwise) the efficacy of the implemented impact management measures.