The site, which is mostly hidden by trees, lies right under the Red Tower in the area and overlooks both Għadira Bay and the nature reserve. It was originally designed by Richard England and has been abandoned for decades and left in ruins.

In a statement, BirdLife Malta insisted that the site was scheduled by MEPA in 2006 as a Level 1 Site of Scientific Interest and a Level 2 Area of Ecological Importance.

It is also located within the confines of a Natura 2000 site and a Bird Sanctuary, with the area surrounding the project forming part of Foresta 2000.

“Despite some setbacks with vandalism in its early years, the site has now matured into an important green open space in Mellieħa which is open all year round to the general public and which BirdLife Malta jointly manages with Din l-Art Ħelwa and PARKS,” it said.

Meanwhile, Din l-Art Ħelwa stressed that an unfinished development, abandoned for decades, cannot serve as a form of legal commitment to justify going against the protection status and related policies that were specifically given to safeguard this site.

“The proposed hotel development directly threatens the ecological, recreational, and educational value the site offers,” both said.

They appealed to the developers and architects behind the planning application to ensure the site is restored to its full natural potential, thus enhancing this green open space in Mellieħa, rather than redeveloping the site.

Those willing to file an objection to the proposed hotel and join the eNGOs can do so by filing a representation via this link.

What do you think of the project?