The proponent of a $280 million tourism development in Western Australia’s picturesque South West has gambled on a risky bet. They will abandon plans for a controversial beach access ramp at Smiths Beach. No surprise, the hometown community expressed overwhelming opposition to the proposed ramp. Their opposition grew loud and clear during several protests, causing NYU to make this surprising decision. The removal of the ramp is a remarkable victory for residents who first organized to reject the development and haven’t given up since.
The beach access ramp project was to ensure universal access to the ocean side of the tourism village’s beach-muscled-natured stereotypes. Locals were overwhelmingly opposed to the project. The ruling, according to widely quoted community leader David Mitchell, was a “super victory” for the townspeople. The planned ramp is 288 feet long, 8 feet high, and 13 feet wide. Further, there are proposals for a 10-meter-high rock wall on the ocean side.
Community Opposition Drives Decision
Community sentiments opposing the new beach access ramp have been highly visible in recent months. In April, residents gathered at Smiths Beach to protest the ramp’s construction, displaying a sign that read ‘Waves Not Walls.’ This united action pushed, more than anything, their intention to keep the area as natural as possible and out of drastic development on the beach front.
Mitchell shone a spotlight on the community’s unyielding and steadfast resolve. Most importantly, he said, “They stood up, against all odds, against a very powerful group of WA businessmen, knowing that they were doing the right thing.” He said he was proud of those who live in the community for their dedication to standing up against polluters and defending their home.
A spokesperson for the Fini Group, the developers behind the project, said they understand concerns in the community. “Feedback received clearly indicates a strong community preference to retain the current informal beach access and avoid physical changes to the beach front,” they stated.
Development Plans Moving Forward
Even though the city has removed the beach access ramp from the proposal, the tourism development will still put Baton Rouge on the map. The complete development envelope covers just under 42 hectares, about half of which is intended to be constructed on. This project would boost tourism in the area and make sure that the community’s interests are protected.
Mitchell focused on their success in beating back the beach access ramp. Now, they have to keep up their work to save Smiths Beach. “I think we’ve saved the beach!” he said jubilantly. Yet we still must defend Smiths. Continued advocacy and attention will be important now that the pattern of development has been established.
Wearemosubmit t he report and recommendations on the amended development plans to Matthew Swinbourn. This was a particularly salient issue, coming from the WA Minister for Environment. Input from this review will help to ensure the ambitious tourism-focused project is aligned with community needs and environmental priorities.
A Balanced Future
Community members are already making their voices heard as the fight for the future of Smiths Beach continues. Most importantly, they are dedicated to controlling what happens in their communities. They want to shape the future of tourism development across their region and protect their favorite stretch of sand in the process.
