Cousteau widow slams stepson's flats plan

The widow of legendary oceanographer Jacques Cousteau has spoken out against a 1,500-unit condominium development on Hawaii that her stepson, Jean-Michael Cousteau, is helping to build as a consultant.

The 434-acre project, Sea Mountain at Punaluu, would be the biggest single development ever undertaken on the east side of the island.

It will mostly consist of apartments but will also include a hotel and a resort.

Francine Cousteau, Jacques Cousteau’s second wife and president of a group called the Cousteau Society, said she opposes the venture.

“It has been brought to our attention that many are under the impression that Jean-Michel Cousteau has the support of The Cousteau Society in his endeavours,” Francine Cousteau said in a statement. “We are extremely concerned about the potential environmental implications of the Sea Mountain resort.”

The project has drawn vehement opposition from environmental groups who say it will harm threatened and endangered species like the hawksbill turtle. They also say it would ruin the cultural and aesthetic qualities of the area.

Jean-Michel Cousteau has vowed to make the project environmentally and culturally sensitive.