A community group fighting plans by developer Luke Saraceni to build a resort and houses at Gnarabup in Margaret River has raised $45,000 in a fighting fund.

The money was raised within days of a public campaign against the development starting.
The Preserve Gnarabup group has also lodged a scheme amendment to the Planning and Development Act 2005 with the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River, in relation to the land.

It proposes the beachfront lots be zoned as a “parks and recreation” reserve for a public purpose. Alternatively, it has suggested the land is compulsorily acquired or bought by the council and then turned into foreshore reserve.

“We ask you to support this proposed amendment when it comes before you,” a letter from the Preserve Gnarabup group to the local council said.

The group claims the proposed development will destroy the town beach, the only protected swimming and recreation beach in the area, and its narrow strip of fragile limestone karst headland.

Mr Saraceni plans to build a five-star Westin Resort, apartments, shops and a restaurant.