Għaqda Storja u Kultura Birżebbuġa gave a host of reasons explaining why the plans for the airstrip must not ensue.

Firstly, the site is found in Wied Żnuber, within the limits of Ħal-Far, next to a Natura 2000 site.

Therefore, the portion of natural land has great ecological and archaeological importance and also serves as a buffer zone between the industrial zone and the Natura 2000 site.

In order for it to continue filling its important role as a buffer zone, it should be excluded from the industrial area and declared ODZ, the NGO explained.

The plans were also discussed behind the public’s back, despite the proposal concerning development on public land.

There was also no form of study regarding the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) conducted prior to the signing of the contract, according to the NGO.

The organisation further explained that the activity and air movements that will be generated by model airplanes next to a Natura 2000 site goes against the main principles that establish those same sites, the 92/433/EEC directive of the EU.

Such activity will have an indubitable social and environmental impact on the area, it drastically increase light and noise pollution in the area and destroy the serenity of the valley and surrounding cliffs.

Moreover, the site is still in its natural state and consists of tilled fields and garigue despite it being wrongly described as “disturbed”. Henceforth, as the last remaining natural site in the area, it must remain accessible to the public.

“The Għaqda Storja u Kultura Birżebbuġa respect the ‘Ħal Far Model Flying Association’ and urges the Prime Minister not only to withdraw this project, but to relocate it so that these model aircraft enthusiasts can practise their interest.”

“Finally, in this case, the Għaqda Storja u Kultura Birżebbuġa urges the Prime Minister to direct his efforts towards the common good of the general public instead of allowing any other unethical intentions that might leave irreversible damage on the natural environment of the country,” they concluded.

This is the organisations fourth letter to the government with the previous three sent on 24th February, 11th March and 10th May followed by several gentle reminders.

Nonetheless, its pleas remain unanswered.

Initial plans for the airstrip outlined that a total of 12,300 sqm would be taken up, but back in April, this changed to the exorbitant amount of 44,000 sqm, which is said to be the equivalent of six and a half football grounds.

According to Malta’s planning policies, an airstrip development is not one that can be done in such an area. Therefore, this would be an illegal development that goes against the same policies approved by the Government.

The site is also home to a number of historical remains including a dolmen, a military shelter, ancient water canals and prehistoric recipients used in burial rites.

In fact, the site was well-reserved under the British but wrongly included in an industrial zone when under the control of its own country nationals.

Do you think the plans for the airstrip should be withdrawn?