Robert Abela Meets Qala Mayor To Ensure That Ħondoq Will Remain Untouched By Development
The picturesque landscape of Ħondoq ir-Rummien, nestled in the heart of Gozo, Malta’s sister island, has long been a topic of discussion and concern. The desire to strike a balance between development and preservation has been a constant challenge for local authorities.
In a visit to the site, Prime Minister Robert Abela joined by Gozo Minister Clint Camilleri and Qala Mayor Paul Buttigieg to reaffirm his commitment to safeguarding the pristine beauty of Ħondoq ir-Rummien.
“In the coming weeks, the process will begin to make changes to the planning laws so that the government can ensure certainty and reassure the public that Ħondoq ir-Rummien will not be developed. This is a crucial step in the fight to protect Ħondoq ir-Rummien.”
The Qala Mayor has just won a 22 year battle against the development of Ħondoq by private interests when the Court of Appeal declared that the Planning Authority was right to reject the new plans submitted by the developer after the EIA had been finalised.
After the outcome of the court case Abela and Camilleri said in a joint statement that this has always been the position of the government.
Abela stressed that his government is determined to ensure that Ħondoq ir-Rummien remains untouched, preserving its unique ecological value and preventing any unwanted development.
By amending the laws, the government aims to quell concerns and provide reassurance to the public that the bay’s natural beauty will be safeguarded for generations to come.
In 2006, alterations were made to the local plan that allowed for significant development within the bay area.
However, in a departure from this approach, the Prime Minister said that the focus will be on the conservation of Gozo’s unique island character and prioritising the interests of local Gozitan families and the Qala community.
The government is working to ensure unobstructed access to the bay, further strengthening its commitment to environmental preservation.
Abela said that the decision to protect Ħondoq ir-Rummien aligns with measures outlined in the ‘Malta Together’ manifesto – a work program that was endorsed by the people during the recent general election. This emphasis on aligning actions with public sentiment underscores the government’s responsiveness to its citizens’ concerns.
Abela praised Buttigieg for playing a pivotal role in championing the cause against development, showcasing the power of local leaders in advocating for environmental preservation.
Abela pointed to the establishment of the Reverse Osmosis plant on government-owned land as a tangible effort to secure a high-quality, independent water supply for Gozitans.
This €11 million investment, coupled with the Green Bonds program, showcases the government’s dedication to environmental conservation and resource sustainability.
Do you think that this is enough to bring Ħondoq out of the woods?
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