Activists Protest Development Plans For Fort Chambray
Activists stormed Fort Chambray today for the second time, fearing construction might begin before an appeal against the development project’s planning permit is decided.
“This may be the last time we see the historic barracks before they begin demolishing it,” they stated.
They displayed a banner and chanted for reforms to the appeals law, which currently allows approved projects to start even if appeals are filed.
The development plan, approved in December, involves demolishing the British-era barracks to make way for a hotel, residential units and commercial facilities.
“Together with other organisations, we’ve just appealed the decision of the Planning Authority to demolish the barracks and build a massive complex of apartments and commercial establishments.
However, due to the law regarding appeals in planning, the Tribunal may not accept our request to halt the works until the appeal is decided.
If this request for a work suspension is not accepted, construction machinery will soon enter this site and start demolishing our heritage to enrich the few.
We are stressing that Prime Minister Robert Abela must keep his word and reform the law on planning appeals.
We are also stressing that no one has the right to steal and destroy our heritage.
FORT CHAMBRAY IS THE PEOPLE’S FORT,” the posted on their socials.
Do you agree with the decision?