08/04/2022
โผ OBJECT TO MASSIVE ODZ DEVELOPMENT IN ATTARD, MOSTAโผ
โ ๏ธ A shocking development application seeks to take up a staggering 210,000sqm of ODZ for a commercial sports complex, a hotel and other facilities.
We are strongly objecting to this second attempt to develop the ex-flower power site area in Ta' Qali.
๐ด This massive development should not even be considered since it would gobble up an unprecedent amount of ODZ land for an intensive development that will severely threaten open spaces, agriculture, historical remains and quality of life.
๐ You may submit your objection by this Friday 8 April by sending an email to [email protected] quoting the application number, PA/676/22, in the subject line.
Feel free to use the text below in your representation ๐
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I object to PA/676/22 for the following reasons:
1. The development is outside development zone (ODZ) and so contrary to SPED and other planning policies. Please refer to Policy 8.1.C: Abandoned Buildings and Policy 8.1.F: Safeguarding Protected Areas, Species and Habitats
2. The plans submitted in PA/676/22 are practically the same as those submitted in PA/00372/19, which application has since been withdrawn.
3. According to the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage comments on 14th March, โโa small catacomb is recorded within the scheduled property, indicating the archaeological sensitivity of the area. Other archaeological discoveries are documented, circa 300 meters to the West of this proposed development site. The Superintendence is also aware of the presence of a Knightโs Period water channel that runs along Triq Durumblat at this location. This historical feature has cultural value that would warrant its preservationโโ.
4. There is no need for a hotel and sports village when such facilities exist within a 15-minute journey; for example in the Taโ Qali Sports stadium and complex.
5. The area is known to have protected species including hedgehogs. Nature Trust has collected and rescued hedgehogs from the very site (with ERA permits).
6. There will be an increase in traffic and consequential noise pollution from traffic and from the activities generated by this development (due to larger crowds frequenting the area).
7. The increase in cars, and traffic, and subsequent pollution will result in a loss of air quality, and loss in quality of life to neighbouring houses.
8. Infrastructure is severely lacking in the area. The road is not able to cope with the increased traffic from such an intensive development.
9. Malta is already overridden with hotels and other big buildings. Open spaces and agricultural land should be left intact for the essential rural environment. This development would take up around 210,000 square meters, including much needed agricultural land.
All of these points highlight the fact that this will be yet another highly unnecessary building project that will further degrade Malta and all its residents, especially when bearing in mind that the type and extent of this development goes against the Local Plan for the area.
The government has pledged to invest more in open green areas. Permitting this so called sports village to be built goes against this pledge.
I urge the PA to refuse application PA/676/22.
