Malta’s Planning Authority has refused an application to extend the American University of Malta’s campus in Bormla.

This comes after the initial application’s case officer had recommended the extension to be approved.

The proposal to extend the campus included turning an unused building on the front, known as the Knight’s Building, into a part of the AUM’s educational institution. This would feature the construction of an extra floor as well as steel and glass features being added to the broken-down building. The height of the building will also increase.

The PA cited a loss of open space as well as concerns about the new height of the building and how it would negatively affect the view of Senglea’s forts as reasons for refusing the application.

Due to the initial case officer’s recommendation, the PA board will need to convene in another meeting to confirm today’s refusal… if it isn’t approved in that time.

The refusal comes after a protest earlier this week that called for the PA to refuse the application.

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