“We take note of the judgment and are considering further avenues to defend the wellbeing of residents and the residential amenity of the locality. This development will result in a monstrous impact blocking out sunlight and creating traffic havoc,” Moviment Graffitti wrote on social media.

“We highlight the fact that both the Tribunal and the Court of Appeal have ruled that no business or activity may operate from the site until Transport Malta certifies that the infrastructure is adequate to sustain such an intensive development. The Court of Appeal said that there will be consequences if this is not provided.”

“We are holding Transport Malta to this, although we do not have any faith in the authorities – the same authorities that have not put a stop to the tipper trucks being parked facing the wrong way, on pavements, on double yellow lines, bus stops, and “at every corner” of Pembroke at all times of the day.”

“These are the same authorities that have not put a stop to the DB takeover of a public square in Mellieħa. These are the same authorities that are allowing the same company to take over a beach in Qawra,” the group continued.

“The authorities refuse to enforce any conditions and do not protect residents or the public. We will hold these authorities to account – come what may.”

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for db Group stated that the company is “deeply satisfied that an eight-year process of intense media, procedural and legal scrutiny of our project earmarked for St George’s St Julians has finally come to an end.” 

“This judgement, confirming the one handed down by the Chief Justice last year, is the definitive validation that our project is in line with all established laws, regulations, norms and good practices. Quite simply, the db Group has been fully and unquestionably vindicated.

“Never has a project in Malta been subjected to this extent of evaluation. This is not meant to express rancour. On the contrary, we believe that this arduous process made our project better and even more unique. For this, we heartily thank everyone, even our harshest critics, for helping us reimagine, rethink, and refine where necessary, making a very good thing even better.”

“We have accepted all reasonable requests and criticism. As we promised all along, we listened, we acted. Now the time has come for us to complete this world-class project in the shortest time possible and with the least inconvenience to residents.”

Earlier today, Moviment Graffitti staged protest against db Group’s “illegal land grab” of Mellieħa Square.

With chants of “Give us back our square,” they occupied the “unauthorised” tables and chairs, sending a clear message of opposition ahead of the PA hearing, where approval of these infringements is anticipated.

Do you think the court made the right decision?