Its architect is Maria Schembri Grima, who was appointed as the Building and Construction Agency chair in April 2021, which was set up to address the major issues plaguing the construction industry. 

Schembri Grima has previously worked on many other developments linked to Portelli, including large-scale projects at the former Forum Hotel and a huge apartment block overlooking Villa Bologna.

The decision was delayed in June 2022, with the architect and applicant now submitting all the necessary amendments and reports which satisfied concerns by the Planning Commission, which mostly concerned unloading bays.

Meanwhile, building heights were slightly reduced while balconies have been set back further. A niche of St Roque on the complex’s facade will also be relocated.

However, residents have mostly said that the project is not in keeping with the area, which touches an Urban Conservation Area.

The project has been selling properties since 2021 and is projected to be finished by winter 2023. Still, Portelli’s projects rarely are completed by the estimated date.

What do you think of the project?