Għaxaq Local Council Gathers 1,544 Objections Against Proposed Fireworks Factory
The Għaxaq local council has gathered a total of 1,544 objections from residents against plans for a new fireworks factory in the locality.
On 10th November, the Planning Authority is set to take a decision on what would be the fifth fireworks factory in Għaxaq, in an area known as Il-Ħbula along Trejqet it-Torri ta’ Kalamija and Triq Ħal Tarxien.
The local council has stated time and time again that it is completely against the plans, with councillor Keith Fenech now presenting the signed petition to the PA with hundreds of signatures.
The PA’s assessment report on the proposed plans was recently completed, recommending the application for refusal. However, the decision by the board still needs to be taken.
According to the plans, the fireworks factory would be built just 75 metres away from the fields which are currently used to set off fireworks.
The council is warning that if the application is approved, it would ruin the current fireworks traditions that the locality has had for years, and pose great danger to those involved in fireworks.
The proposed development would also be situated very close to two chapels, which are frequented by visitors on a daily basis.
It also poses a threat to other industries within the area that might not be able to continue their work, such as an area used for the culmination of fresh flowers.
Back in 2003, the PA had rejected an application on the same site, on the grounds that it was too close to the fields where fireworks are set off from, which detailed plans for a new petrol station.
Do you think the Planning Authority board should reject this application?
READ NEXT: Watch: Karmenu Mifsud Bonnici Given Final Farewell, Maltese Flag Draped Over His Coffin
