Environmental impact assessment for coastal works at Four Seasons Resort, Landaa Giraavaru, B. Atoll

Abstract

The present report assesses the potential environmental impacts associated with the construction of headlands to prevent coastline erosion on the northern shoreline, an offshore breakwater about 30m from the shoreline and construction of an overwater bar on the northern side of the island and beach replenishment of the northern shoreline at B. Landaa Giraavaru.The island of Landaa Giraavaru has historically been eroding (Figure 2). During the construction phase, whilst the coastal works were being conducted, sand movement was hindered, and as a result a large amount of sand was retained on the south-eastern tip of the island. This caused sand depletion on the northern side, speeding up the erosion process that was already taking place naturally. The area under study near the restaurant and swimming pool is an important recreational area for the guests, although it is rarely used for snorkelling or bathing as it does not offer the most favourable conditions. In particular, the important exposed beach rock in this area makes sea access difficult for the snorkelers or swimmers. The eroding coastline exhibits numerous fallen trees and the water is murky as a result of the suspension of top soil in the water column in the near shore area.It is proposed to build some coastal structures, typically headlands and revetments, to retain the sand on the northern shore and replenish the beach using some material from the lagoon area. Three borrow areas are highlighted in the present proposal. To further maintain the coast, some offshore structures are proposed to break the coming waves as well as create habitat for lobsters.In addition, the management has decided on the construction of a new food and beverage outlet in the form of an overwater bar which will be located near the swimming pool area where the grill restaurant, Fuego is already present. Finally, the island is in constant need of sand to maintain the roads after heavy rains in particular. Some sand was previously collected from the accreting eastern side. This was particularly convenient as the pipes under the jetty were often getting buried, which was an operational nuisance. The present report therefore advises to continue with this practice.