The California Coastal Commission was scheduled to vote on whether or not David Evans, also known as U2’s The Edge, and several of his associates will be granted a permit to build five homes north of Sweetwater Canyon Road. The vote was postponed Wednesday evening at Evans’ request. The Coastal Commission staff has recommended the denial of the permits.
The controversial project, opposed by many members of the community, now has another element of dispute. The coastal permit applications are currently filed for five separate homes, but the Coastal Commission argues that the project should be considered a single compound of homes because of the close family or business relationships of the prospective homeowners. If the permits are granted as separate parcels of land, it makes it easier for prospective homeowners to build additional homes at the location.
The community has fought the project for years. Those opposed cite mainly environmental concerns. Critics say the homes will disturb a natural ridgeline and harm sensitive habitat areas. On his Web site “Leaves in the Wind,” Evans counters these accusations, arguing mainly that the homes themselves will be environmentally friendly. In response to accusations that the homes will destroy the environment of the Sweetwater Mesa area, his Web site reads, “Nothing could be further from the truth. The houses that are planned for Sweetwater Mesa will be some of the most environmentally sensitive buildings ever conceived in Malibu – or anywhere in the world.”
The project would also require the construction of a 1,600-foot access road. The homes vary in size from 7,220 square feet to Evans’ 12,785-square-foot residence.
It is currently unknown when the Coastal Commission will vote on the development.
—Carly Erickson
editorial@malibutimes.com