The Planning Authority (PA) has rejected an application to replace a traditional terraced house in San Ġwann with a four-storey building.

The proposed plans were intended to take place along Triq tal-Mensija but the Commission cited that the existing home is an “integral part of a meticulously designed streetscape characterised by other similar two-storey houses with a distinctive architectural style.”

The authority further highlighted that the proposed increase in height and visual design does not harmonise with this established context, thus posing a threat to the “well-defined” visual characteristics and urban design of the area.

This development does not fall within San Ġwann’s Gwann’s Urban Conservation Area (UCA), however, the proposal did not offer any enhancement to the area’s quality and amenity – resulting in its rejection.

“In recent weeks, the Planning Authority rejected other similar development applications so as to safeguard the homogeneity of the existing streetscape and avoid the creation of disruptive blank walls. These applications were located in Triq Santa Margerita, Sliema, and Pjazza Patri Redent Gauci, Fgura,” a statement issued by the PA reads.

Do you think that the PA is doing enough to ensure that Malta’s distinctive architectural streetscape style is maintained?