Coral Cove Group vs. Planning Authority

On July 17, 2024, the Coral Cove Group, a community organization based in L’Anse aux Épines, Grenada, filed an application for judicial review against the Planning and Development Authority. The application arose from the Authority’s refusal to provide access to planning application materials, including technical plans and environmental information, relating to a proposed boatyard development at Mt. Hartman Bay, a coastal area that is environmentally sensitive and vulnerable to climate-related impacts such as coastal erosion, sea level rise, and increased storm intensity. The Coral Cove Group argued that the denial of access to information undermined meaningful public participation and prevented community scrutiny of a development with potential environmental and climate implications, particularly in light of Grenada’s exposure to climate change and the importance of coastal ecosystem protection for climate resilience. During proceedings in late 2024, the Planning and Development Authority did not advance a substantive defense in relation to the claim concerning access to information. The court consequently affirmed the right of the Coral Cove Group to obtain the requested planning and environmental documents. While the court did not rule on the substantive legality of the planning permission for the boatyard development, the proceedings underscored the procedural obligations of public authorities to ensure transparency and access to environmental information in development decisions that may affect climate-vulnerable coastal zones. As of the most recent publicly available information, the case remains ongoing, with no final determination on the underlying planning approval. The matter is considered significant for climate and environmental governance in Grenada, as it reinforces procedural climate justice principles, including access to information, public participation, and accountability in decision-making related to developments that may exacerbate climate risks or undermine local climate resilience.