‘Not Business As Usual’: New Planning Bills Protest On Budget Day
A second protest against the planning bills will take place on 27th October, the day the government will present its Budget for 2026.
The Ġustizzja Għal Artna campaign announced that the protest will start at 5:30pm from the law courts and move towards Parliament.
“We have repeatedly stated that we would much rather sit around a table to discuss the urgent planning and environmental reforms our country needs,” they said.
“However, despite the people’s cry for justice, including the thousands who took to the streets on Saturday 4th October, Prime Minister Robert Abela continues to refuse to listen.”
“This so-called planning reform is a Damocles’ sword hanging over the people’s heads. It is no coincidence that this protest will coincide with the presentation of the annual Budget. Our message is clear: this is not business as usual.”
Among other issues, protestors are concerned at provisions in the bills that will allow policies issued by the Planning Authority to override local plans and limit the public’s right to appeal planning decisions.
Cover Photo: Moviment Graffitti