Existing Hotel Presents Plans For Three-Storey Extension In Mellieħa
An existing hotel in Mellieħa has recently filed a development application for a three-storey extension to host an additional 72 rooms.
G3 Hospitality Ltd. together with Perit Brian Ebejer filed the application to extend the Pergola Hotel, which is situated along Triq Snajjin, Triq Adenau, and Triq Dun Franġisk Sciberras.
The development application outlines plans to extend levels five, six, and seven of the existing Class 3A hotel, detailing the construction of three additional floors for a total of 72 additional hotel rooms, a roof garden with a pool, and ancillary facilities.
Proposed elevation of facade
While the area strictly falls within the development zone, a number of residents have expressed their concern about the extension of the hotel, due to it falling partly within a residential area.
Among the issues being raised is that of parking, with residents stating that there is already a parking problem as it is.
“The existing hotel facilities do not have enough parking for its existing customers and employees, let alone for the additional increased rooms. There are also no facilities for coaches and vehicles to arrive and not close the road completely when they are alighting and boarding guests at the hotel,” one resident said.
“Given the site is located in a residential area further extending the size of this hotel will have a negative impact due to increase in traffic, parking, and noise pollution,” another said.
“The proposed development will adversely affect an already dire parking space situation for nearby residents. Furthermore, this development poses a serious risk of turning the neighboring streets into a rowdy, concrete jungle and may serve as a precedent for further unsightly development to ensure much to the deterrent of the value and beauty of the surrounding properties,” another objection reads.
Others also stressed that as per the 2006 Local Plans, the allowable height for the part on Triq Snajjin is one floor, due to it being a villa area.
Another concern brought forward was the fact that the hotel is situated on a ridge, therefore such a development could affect the face of the cliff.
Lovin Malta reached out to G3 Hospitality Ltd. to enquire about the development application, who stressed that they are ready to listen to residents’ concerns.
“Although we believe that the design of the proposed extension conforms with current applicable policies and regulations, it is still subject to evaluation and adjudication and as a result, the design of the project may be amended,” Managing Director Daniel Grima told Lovin Malta.
“As a Group, we believe in consultation, and we are open to feedback of any kind. We do invite all residents of the local community who wish to make their concerns heard to reach out to us,” Grima said.
What do you make of these plans?
READ NEXT: Students Need To Present eSims Registration To Benefit From New Prices, KSU Clarify
