An illegal development situated along Xemxija Hill has continued to persist even after the Planning Authority (PA) issued an enforcement notice ordering the halting of the works.

The illegal development is currently taking place at the Kaħlija Court, located along Telgħet Ix-Xemxija and Dawret In-Nawfraġju, Xemxija. 

The original permit connected to the area, PA/02769/21, was initially granted, detailing the “proposed change of use from Class 1 (dwelling) to Class 3B; hotel and tourist accommodation, including ancillary facilities and restaurant”.

It also mentioned the “proposed external and internal alterations, changes to elevations, and minor changes to boundary walls”.

However, later on, it was discovered that the entire building block along the seafront was already illegal in the first place and was subsequently sanctioned following this application.

Speaking with Lovin Malta, a resident detailed how “unfortunately, the illegal development did not stop there”. Residents of the area have also lodged a complaint case with the PA over the development. 

“An extension to the building was made on the terrace at street level as a restaurant, constructed with a wooden beam structure that will eventually be sanctioned as well,” the resident detailed.

“On the rooftop, the size of the lift room was illegally doubled, and an enormous metal and gypsum structure is currently being built on the roof to be used as storage and restrooms.”

“It is essential that this development is stopped immediately before it’s too late as it seems there are ways how to get around it,” they lamented.

Sources have also informed Lovin Malta that even though PA officers were present on-site to stop the illegal works, while issuing an enforcement notice, works continued the following day. 

The enforcement notice, EC 00079/2023, was issued on 10th May.