Despite not yet having a permit, Portelli had already started work on these pools, with excavation in the areas tearing out some of the greenery. “He even said he carried out this illegal behaviour because he was certain of his ‘right’ to build on ODZ land,” they claimed, citing an interview.

“This is a confirmation of what we have been saying from the start: we have farcical politicians and authorities who bend over backwards to appease developers like Portelli.”

That same morning, parts of a different Portelli development in Sannat were also annulled because they violated the rules on building height.

However, these developments were already built because the Planning Tribunal (EPRT) – “another farcical institution” – did not stop the works until the case was decided.

The activist organisation went on to insist that the law regarding appeals, as well as the way the EPRT functions, need to be changed immediately to ensure that construction cannot begin until a definite decision has been made about the appeal. 

“Above all, we will continue fighting against these abuses that are ravaging Malta and Gozo – perpetrated by the authorities of our own country and with the complete support of our own politicians – to stop them and safeguard the common good.”

The appellants were represented by lawyer Claire Bonello.

Do you agree with the court’s decision?