U2's Edge loses development bid

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MALIBU, Calif., June 17 (UPI) -- A five-mansion development plan along a ridgeline above Malibu, Calif., proposed by U2 guitarist the Edge was rejected by the California Coastal Commission.

The guitarist's request, rejected Thursday on an 8-4 vote, had been considered a property-rights clash between the musician, real name David Evans, and the agency that regulates development along the California coastline, the Los Angeles Times reported Friday.

"In 38 years of this commission's existence, this is one of the three worst projects that I've seen in terms of environmental devastation," Peter Douglas, the agency's executive director, said after the vote. "It's a contradiction in terms -- you can't be serious about being an environmentalist and pick this location" when considering the project's effects on habitat, land formation, scenic views and water quality.

Evans has been trying to secure permits since 2006 to build his home and four others in the Sweetwater Mesa area, the Times said.

Spokeswoman Fiona Hutton said Evans and the other property owners would review their options, including whether to sue.

"They undertook this effort with a deep personal commitment and sense of responsibility to protect environmental resources and develop environmentally superior homes," she said in a statement. "This commitment was recognized and praised by many of the commissioners during their lengthy and complex deliberations. The property owners remain steadfast in their vision."