KTP assured that it has engaged in regular discussions with the Planning Authority on the need to collaborate on developing a National Architecture Policy which would analyse and address the strategic issues facing the practice of architecture in Malta.

The Council was also concurrently engaged in discussions with the PA through the National Building Council on “overdue” reforms to the planning appeal process.

“The Kamra’s position has been clear from the start: all permits should be suspended during the appeal phase which, however, should be shortened and made more efficient thereby striking a balance between the opposing interests in this debate.”

In recent weeks, Council representatives were presented with draft text related to the EPRT Act to which it gave its feedback. The Council is satisfied that most of its recommendations were included in the final Bill. Nevertheless, a number of provisions found therein were not previously discussed, KTP wrote.

A second Bill, however, was also published with the one governing the planning appeal process. This second Bill proposes amendments to the Development Planning Act. KTP said it was never presented with this text and was only able to review it over the past three days.

KTP took a detailed look into these Bills, drafting two reports with the intention of providing balanced, constructive and informed assessment on the proposed amendments, as well as addressing misinformation circulating in the media about these amendments.

“It is incorrect to state that only objections filed within the 30-day representation window will be considered,” KTP continued.

The actual text is clear that objections can be changed and extended until the two-week deadline to respond to the case officer’s report. Moreover, objectors are given the right to file further submissions if any plans are changed at the request of the Planning Board.

There are, however, aspects of Bill 143 which the Council finds objectionable, particularly in relation to the change in planning document hierarchy and the provisions to modify plans.

“While the Kamra recognises that Malta’s planning documents are poorly crafted and grossly outdated, piecemeal revisions and the absence of broad public participation in decisions affecting the well-being of this country and its citizens is not the correct approach.”

KTP continued by once again calling for the initiation of a “formal process for deep and meaningful planning reform, looking at rebuilding the entire planning system from first principles, informed by contemporary and sustainable planning paradigms”.

“The Kamra tal-Periti is willing to step up and lead the process, as it has already been entrusted to do with other reforms. The Council believes it is in a privileged position to take on this role, given the broad confidence and trust of opposing and varying interests it enjoys.”

It concluded by the welcoming Prime Minister Robert Abela’s statements assuring that the government will be considering feedback about the Bills.