ERA Objects To Plans To Develop Derelict ODZ Ruins Shadowed By The Mdina Bastions
The Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) objected to two separate applications to develop two ruined buildings nestled underneath the Mdina bastions on ODZ land.
The two applications concern two properties known as Ġnien Ħira in Triq l-Għarreqin, Mdina. They are planning to develop rural rooms surrounded by agricultural fields into residences.
The infamous 2014 Rural Policy and Design guidelines permit redevelopment of ODZ structures that were inhabited at any point before 1992.
The applicants claimed the two structures served as farmhouses that were inhabited by two families whose details appear in the electoral registry in 1959, 1961, and 1968.
However, the PA case officer pointed out that aerial photos from 1978 and 1994 show the roofs to be collapsed and the buildings inhabitable. The officer claimed that no documented proof has been found to link the site to the one listed in the electoral register.
He said that the proposal will lead to the creation of new dwellings outside the development zone.
“The proposed use of the building as a residence cannot, therefore, be verified and, thus, the proposal will lead to the creation of a new dwelling outside the development zone.”
The applications, PA/04050/21 and PA/04172/21, were filed by Luke Scicluna Marshall and Matthew Marshall respectively.
ERA contended that construction in the area will result in the intensification of development within ODZ on a site within an area of high landscape value, loss of the rural character of the area, and the proliferation of development for recreational uses in the area.
“Should this application be approved, it would set a pretext for further interventions on site, such as further extensions to the dwelling, construction of a pool with ancillaries, provision of parking areas, ancillary infrastructure such as lighting, etc., which will further intensify urban use of ODZ and alter the natural state of the area.”
Both applications were recommended for refusal by their respective case officers and are scheduled to be decided by the board on 23th February.
Photo credits: Blueprint Periti, Planning Authority
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