UK-based design consultancy Scott Wilson has been appointed to conduct a tourism feasibility study on the Cambodian island of Koh Rong.

The company will carry out an environmental evaluation and social impact analysis on what is set to be Asia's "first environmentally planned resort island".

The Royal Group of Cambodia, which has been awarded a 99-year lease by the Cambodian government to develop the island, has also tasked the consultancy to produce a blueprint for the infrastructure on Koh Rong - including a road network, a marina, an international airport and utility services.

Covering an area of 80sq km (31sq miles) the island currently has a population of just 1,500, most of which live in small fishing villages spread across the coast.

The Royal Group's chair, property tycoon Kith Meng, said he wants to establish the largely untouched Koh Rong and its white beaches as the "next Asian Riviera" - following the likes of Phuket and Koh Samui in Thailand and Bali in Indonesia.

Meng added that The Royal Group is "committed to sustainable development" of Koh Rong, ensuring that the impacts on the environment are minimised and positive environmental benefits are realised throughout the development phases of the island.

The study will identify environmentally sensitive areas, such as coral reefs, mangroves and fisheries, and take the findings into account when drawing recommendations for international tourism and real estate development.

Initial plans for the island include luxury resorts and accommodation and two golf courses.

Property giant CB Richard Ellis' Thailand office will act as the exclusive advisor and sole agent for developing the island.

Lauri Van Run, general manager of Scott Wilson's Malaysian office, will head the consultation in partnership with Hong Kong-based MAP Architects.

He said: "The master plan for Koh Rong presents perhaps a unique opportunity to create virtually from the beginning a truly ecologically sustainable large scale resort community."

"Koh Rong is an unspoilt paradise of pristine beaches and spectacular natural forests. It offers a unique opportunity to create the ultimate ecologically managed island, with ecologically sustainable resorts with sound investment potential.

David Simister, chairman of CBRE Thailand, said: "The Koh Rong story is similar to that of Samui and Phuket 30 years ago.

"It is one of the last undiscovered paradises in South-East Asia with the potential to become the next Asian Riviera."