Perth-based Saracen Properties and Security Capital Australia are progressing with their $138-million tourism development at Gnarabup, known as the Gnarabup Project.
The development will include the Westin Margaret River Resort & Spa, a 121-room, five-star hotel that will be operated by Marriott Group under a 20-year management contract. Additionally, the Gnarabup Beach Village will feature 51 beach houses, four townhouses, 25 apartments, and a general store/café.
Project manager Luke Saraceni noted the strong local sentiment surrounding the site during the most recent environmental review, which concluded in November 2024. The proposal is currently under assessment by the EPA Western Australia at the Public Environmental Review (PER) level, with the public comment period now closed.
Joel Saraceni, project manager at Saracen Group, emphasized the importance of the development, stating, “A lot of time and resources have gone into this process. The project is needed now more than ever and will help address the housing shortage by providing dedicated tourist accommodation.”
The 6.9-hectare site, located on Wallcliffe Road, has been zoned for tourism since 2007. Construction of the hotel is expected to take 24 months after approvals are granted, with the village being completed in three stages over approximately 46 months.
