‘Out Of Context And Incompatible’: ERA Slams €200,000 Horse Statue Proposed On Gozitan ODZ Land
The Environment and Resources Authority has slammed the proposal for a statue of an eight-legged bronze horse on pristine ODZ land in Xwejni, Gozo.
Lovin Malta had initially reported the surfacing of the development proposal, and it was later revealed that it would cost as much as €209,000 from public funds.
In its report, ERA deemed the design as “out of context and incompatible with the natural surroundings and the pristine coast landscape” and advised the Planning Authority to reject the proposal.
The Superintendence of Cultural Heritage and the Design Advisory Committee also recommended the PA not grant the permit.
A number of objectors have also criticised the design, saying that such a statue does not belong in the pristine location where it has been proposed, with others saying that it was a complete waste of money.
The eight-legged horse was designed by Gozitan contemporary artist Austin Camilleri, well-known for his Zieme and Neil Agius statue, who also said that the design for this sculpture is “site-specific”.
The application was filed by John Borg on behalf of the Gozo Ministry, along with architect Christina Said in Triq is-Sagħtrija.
Apart from the area also falling within ODZ and forming part of the Żebbuġ coastline, the statue proposal raises questions on land ownership.
“That’s private property, it belongs to my mother. How can this individual John Borg ask for a permit on someone else’s property? We strongly object to this monument,” one representation said.
“This is a private area. Were the owners informed? Did they sign for approval of the monument? What is the scope of the monument?” another said.
What do you make of this ordeal?
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