The Gorgon LNG project hit a hurdle in June when the Environmental Protection Authority said it might threaten the Pilbara flatback turtle.

EPA research had found a third of the turtle population used the island, which is 200km off northwest Western Australia, for nesting.

But a new study by Chevron, a key player in the development, has shown only 15% of the turtles use Barrow Island as a nesting site, meaning less would be threatened by the project.

Media reports yesterday said Chevron had forwarded the new findings to WA environmental appeals convenor Garry Middle, who is considering the Gorgon partners’ appeal against the EPA decision.

He is expected to make a recommendation to State Environment Minister Mark McGowan in the next three weeks. McGowan will then decide if construction can go ahead later this year.

The news comes after media reports yesterday said cost blow-outs for the project could be as high as $3 billion and partners in the development are undertaking a study to try and offset the increases.

Chevron has a 50% stake in the project, while ExxonMobil and Shell each own 25% in the joint venture.