The matter involving Freesoul Real Estate Development Limited was called for first mention in the Nadi Magistrates’ court today.

The company is charged with one count of undertaking unauthorized developments and one count of failure to comply with a prohibition notice under the Environment Management Act 2005.

Freesoul Development Limited is working on a resort project in the Mamanuca group.

It has been found that the Developer violated the terms of its development as outlined by the Department of Environment.

Despite a “Stop Order” notice, the developer is adamant the multi-million dollar project is worthwhile.

The developer claims that before they were issued the foreshore lease by the Director of Lands, they had assisted landowners and fishing rights holders with over $1.5m in projects and employment opportunities for locals.

However, the Land Ministry has confirmed no foreshore lease was issued by the Director of Lands.

Project Officer Saula Sovanivalu appeared on behalf of the company.

The State served the disclosures and sought time to serve further disclosures.

The matter has been adjourned to the 26th of next month.