Andrew Forrest's $70m Ningaloo Reef Resort Plans Get Green Light
A A$70 million resort planned by Australian billionaire Andrew Forrest near the Ningaloo Reef has been cleared by authorities. The project has regional backing on hopes of eco-tourism and jobs. Environmental groups say they will monitor the impact on the reef ecosystem closely.
A A$70 million resort planned by Australian billionaire Andrew Forrest in the Exmouth area of Western Australia has been cleared by local authorities. The development will sit close to the Ningaloo Reef, one of the world's largest reef systems.
According to ABC News Australia, the project will combine accommodation, food-and-beverage facilities and an education-focused nature centre. Forrest family's investment arm has said the design will be low-impact and renewable-energy oriented. The local government said the build-out and operations are expected to create hundreds of direct and indirect jobs.
Environmental groups, citing the reef's sensitive ecosystem, have called for strict pre- and post-construction monitoring protocols. The project's schedule will depend on environmental impact assessment approvals and seasonal weather windows. Australia's tourism industry has framed the investment as a tangible signal of regional eco-tourism potential.
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