The World Wave Project (WWP) will not consider any further investments in Fiji.
In a statement, the company said they were surprised with the feedback they received at the consultation held in Naselesele Village last week.
The Qamea World Wave Project was designed to re-sculpt reefs outside the island to be modified to allow for improved surfing.
Company executive Dr Shaw Mead said the consultation showed that landowners did not want the project to proceed.
“The WWP was somewhat surprised by the public meeting at Naselesele on Taveuni,” he said.
“Following the results of the marine resource study early this year which found that environmental impacts to the two potential sites for developing surf breaks would be short term, further communications between the village leaders and the EIA consultants for the project indicated a desire to formally meet and discuss the positive aspects of the project.
“However, it was made clear at the meeting that the landowners did not want the project to proceed due to concerns of the effects on fishing opportunities.”
Dr Mead said the WWP respected the decision of the landowners and would not proceed with the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) application.
“The WWP will not be considering any further investment in Fiji.”
At the consultation, Michael Lucas, another company executive, said if landowners did not want the project to go ahead, they would respect the villagers wishes.
“If they don’t want it then it will stop, it’s as simple as that,” he said.
