The developer of the Ora Tourism Complex recently held a presentation about the project. Critics say it was an attempt by the company, JCC, to wipe out the environmental argument against the development. Here’s Mike Laidman with some history on the project, and where it stands now.



Report

The development of the Ora Tourism Complex has changed hands six times since 1999.

And with a reported 6.2 trillion won planned for investment in the project, it will be the largest development in Jeju.

The administrative procedures for the project had been going smoothly until September, 2016, at which point construction was very close to starting.

However, all work on the project has been halted ever since the results of an environmental impact assessment were released.

### CG IN ###
The province is now requiring the developer to revise its plan.

It is asking that the tourism complex minimize its use of groundwater and treat all of its waste and sewage on-site. Also, a recalculation of optimal demand is being requested.
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The JCC hasn’t responded to the island’s requests for about 2 months now, and so many are wondering just how or when the project will continue.

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If Jeju accepts JCC response, plan goes to provincial council

Once the JCC submits its answers to the province, the remaining administrative procedures can start.

The provincial office will have the final say on whether or not it accepts the company’s response.

Currently, the JCC is in talks with the provincial office over the requests and possible solutions.

The submission of such solutions would therefore likely mean acceptance by the province.

The provincial council will review the environmental impact assessment report and decide whether it finally approves of the project plan or not.

However, earning approval will be no easy task, mainly due to how Jeju governor Won Heeryong has promised a thorough review into the mega project plan.

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‘Thorough review of funding plan, expected economic impact’

He pledged that his office will examine every detail of the proposed construction and funding, as well as its impact on local economy.

The governor promised that the province will hire professional consultants for a more transparent review.

Sync
Won Heeryong / Jeju governor (December 27)
The JCC will soon submit a report for provincial review. My office will examine the funding plan and make a final decision transparently and fairly.
씽크)원희룡 제주특별자치도지사(지난달 27일)
이제 본인들이 이 부분에 대해서 자료를 내고 검증하는 절차를 거칠 것이고요, 이 부분에 대한 자본의 충실성과 투명성 없이 사업 최종허가를 하는 일은 없을 것입니다.

The JCC has postponed its groundbreaking ceremony from the end of 2016 to the first half of this year.

[Reporter] Mike Laidman
[Camera] Kim Yong-min

However, insiders expect that the province will not give the Ora Tourism Complex the go-ahead anytime soon because of all the controversy surrounding it, and also the careful revisions and decisions which must be made.

Mike Laidman, KCTV