Movement Graffitti Calls For Rejection Of ‘Monstrous’ 13-Storey Naxxar Towers Development
Local NGO Moviment Graffiti is calling on Malta’s Planning Board to unequivocally reject a proposed ‘mega-development’ in Naxxar consisting of several towers of 13 storeys each.
The developments being proposed will be comprised of 113 residential units as well as commercial development. This is proposed to be built upon the former trade fair grounds in Naxxar.
“This monstrosity is most clearly out of proportion with its surroundings, will rob residents and visitors of much needed open spaces, and will also lead to an immediate and steep decline in the quality of life,” the NGO said.
“The fact that such an out-of-proportion development has been recommended for approval by the Planning Authority is testament to the total failure of our planning system and the authorities administering it.”
The NGO highlighted how other structures in the area rise up to four storeys, making the proposed development three times higher than its surroundings.
“The overnight increase in the number of residential and commercial activity in the area will also create unsustainable pressures on the locality’s infrastructure, such as its roads and parking spaces,” Moviment Graffitti continued.
“Hundreds of residents have strongly objected to this project and the Social Impact Assessment has clearly evidenced the overwhelming opposition to this highly intensive development.”
Last month, Moviment Graffitti unveiled 134 proposals in a new Planning and Construction Reform. Amongst these, the NGO proposed a moratorium on large-scale projects – such as the one in Naxxar – until both national and localised master plans are enacted.
“There should be the identification of detailed boundaries or specific areas where such projects can take place, together with an assessment of a maximum capacity limit within these areas,” the NGO concluded.
“Moreover, developers should pay most costs related to the upgrading of services. Under our proposals concerning large-scale projects, Local Councils affected by major private projects would also have the power to call a referendum among the locality’s residents.”