A development application to rebuild the Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island's idyllic south coast has been approved, more than a year after the luxury resort was destroyed by a huge bushfire.
But the project still faces major hurdles and will have to comply with 34 conditions set out by the Country Fire Service (CFS), which deemed the location "high risk".
The lodge's owner has also described the likely cost of insuring the site as a "significant impediment".
The lodge was reduced to a charred wreck when a deadly bushfire swept across the island in January 2020, but owners James and Hayley Baillie later vowed to rebuild.
James Baillie said he was "delighted" that Planning Minister Vickie Chapman had approved a development application for the site.
"We appreciate the support of the South Australian government in this process and consider it another box ticked on the way to rebuilding our flagship property," he said.
But he said the revival of the $2,500-per-night retreat could be tripped up by insurance premiums.
"In reality, it's now the only significant impediment to recreating this tourism icon for South Australia."
He said the company was continuing its negotiations with insurers to facilitate the rebuild.
Under the proposed plans, the lodge would be rebuilt based on the original design by South Australian architect Max Pritchard.
It would also have a helipad to be "used for emergencies".
Drawings submitted by Max Pritchard Gunner Architects show the resort would feature a spa retreat, gym and pool, ocean pavilion, and a range of luxury suites.
Site considered 'high risk'
The CFS has imposed 34 conditions on a rebuild, a reflection of the resort's remote location.
In the South Australian Government Gazette, the CFS said that "given the location of the development [it] is considered high risk due to the vulnerable nature of tourists".
Thirteen guests and almost 50 staff were evacuated when the devastating Ravine fire tore across the island, with the co-managers forced to take shelter in a bunker to survive the blaze.
The concrete slab of the main building was all that remained.
As per the CFS's conditions, the Southern Ocean Lodge 2.0 would be required to always have 100,000 litres of water on site as a fire-fighting supply.
The resort must also be accessible by a fire trail, and have a bushfire buffer zone of at least 20 metres.
The CFS also stated that due to the site's location, management must implement a "leave early" strategy for guests and staff.
"In addition, the proponent shall consider reducing operating hours and restricting activities on days of heightened bushfire risk."
