Coastal Commission Blocks West Bluffs

Carolanne Sudderth

Mirror Staff Writer

   Last Wednesday (Aug. 11), the California Coastal Commission voted unanimously to deny permits for a 44-acre residential community atop the only undeveloped Ballona bluff. 
   Catellus Development Corporation’s 119-unit “West Bluffs” was to be located just west of Lincoln and just south of the Ballona Wetlands. 
   In a move that took many by surprise, the Commission voted 11-0 against the project, despite recommendations from staff that they approve the project. 
   Reasons cited for the decision included “proximity to rare and endangered species, destruction of cultural resources and damage to coastal resources,” as well as fears of clashing with a recent Appeals Court decision regarding the Bolsa Chica wetlands.