DLH President Urges Withdrawal Of Controversial Planning Reforms
Patrick Calleja, Executive President of Din l-Art Ħelwa (DLH), has described the government’s proposed planning reforms as “atrocious” and called for their immediate withdrawal. He emphasized that environmental NGOs (eNGOs) are preparing for a national protest to express their opposition.
The government’s reform package includes two bills and two legal notices. The bills address appeals concerning planning permits and amendments to the Development Planning Act. The legal notices propose regularising illegal developments built before 1994 in Outside Development Zones (ODZ) and before 2016 within development zones, as well as granting concessions for illegal developments up to 2024.
While Planning Minister Clint Camilleri has indicated that certain clauses will be removed, Calleja insists that the entire package should be withdrawn. He advocates for a comprehensive reform process that involves proper consultation with all stakeholders, aiming to improve the quality of life rather than benefit a select few.
Calleja attributes public frustration to inconsistent enforcement of planning regulations, citing examples of large developments being approved while minor alterations are denied, according to Malta Independent. This disparity has led to increased non-compliance, such as the proliferation of illegal structures along the coast.
Regarding the proposed regularisation and concession schemes, Calleja argues that they could be exploited to legalise widespread illegal developments, undermining the planning system’s integrity. He suggests that in specific cases, such as when a property owner unknowingly purchased a non-compliant property, regularisation could be considered, but not as a blanket policy.
Calleja also criticises provisions in the bills that could allow significant changes to building heights with minimal consent and impose fines for “frivolous” appeals, which he believes could further erode public trust in the planning system.
The upcoming protest is part of an ongoing campaign by eNGOs to demand the withdrawal of the proposed reforms and to advocate for a planning system that serves the public interest.
What do you make of his statements?
READ NEXT: Alex Borg Proposes Deputy Leader Post For Darren Carabott
