Applicants Behind Lija Gas Storage Facility Proposal Address Public Concerns
The applicants behind a development application for a gas storage facility a few metres away from the primary school in Lija have addressed public concerns.
This comes after alarms were raised by PN MP Justin Schembri, who called upon Education Minister Clifton Grima, the Permanent Secretary, and the Head of the College Network to intervene.
The permit, 00973/23, details the proposal for a new bulk LPG storage facility, within a residential complex situated along Triq Robert Mifsud Bonnici in Lija.
While Enemalta had objected to the permit at an earlier stage, it later gave its go-ahead. The latest letter showing that Enemalta has not objected has been seen by Lovin Malta.
The applicants, who are the Directors of Torri Gardens Limited, have now maintained that the “complex formerly known as the ‘University of Malta Residence’ is being commercially operated by the company through which it provides various residential facilities to a number of tenants”.
“For decades the residential complex was equipped with LNG tanks used as a primary energy source for heating purposes. This was in line and in proportion with the energy requirements of the footprint of the whole complex.”
“In order to enhance the safety of the LNG energy source and to continue generating heating for the rooms at the residence in the most environmentally friendly manner, the company has decided to install new LNG Storage tanks to replace what already existed in the past decades.”
“The installation process is following all the procedures at law and will not create any exposure to the health and safety of any children or residents occupying the surrounding buildings. This gas system is the same one used by businesses and households around the country that require the generation of energy through LNG.”
“These include properties providing the same type of service in the vicinity of the company’s property. The said system consists of two above-ground gas tanks 2.4 metres long and one metre in diameter.
“It is therefore a small system which has also been approved by Enemalta.”
“The company is committed to retaining good neighbourly relations with the community and rebuts any unfounded allegations that may disrupt the existing good relations. Contrary to what is being portrayed the property will not be transformed into a LNG Storage Plant.”
“The area will remain a residential complex with a number of sporting facilities.”
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