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Sandro Chetcuti Will Not Erect Another Gate At Fomm Ir-Riħ Bay After Ramblers’ Association Enters Discussion

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Malta’s Ramblers’ Association has entered into discussions with the government and the landowner of Fomm ir-Riħ, Malta Developers’ Association Head Sandro Chetcuti, regarding public access to the foreshore.

“Since the partial collapse of the clay slopes in August 2020 may have damaged the path appearing on the 1983 public deed, the association, landowner and Government will be investigating this matter further and, if necessary, identify a safer passage to lead down to the bay,” the association said in a statement. 

Controversy erupted last week after activists raised the alarm that access to the bay had been restricted. Both Chetcuti and the Planning Ministry said the gate was erected for safety reasons. 

Fomm ir-Riħ has been somewhat dangerous to visitors following a clay slop collapse in August 2020, which effectively covered a significant part of the bay.

However, a 1983 deed “establishes gratuitously as from the date of this deed in favour of the Government, on whose behalf the Commissioner of Lands accepts, a perpetual right and access therefrom to the foreshore and the sea over a divided portion of land situated in the locality of Fomm ir-Rih, in the limits of Imgarr, Malta”.

Chetcuti told the association that he wanted to keep access to Fomm ir-Rih Bay accessible to the public.

Until the issue is addressed, Chetcuti has pledged to not submit an application with the Planning Authority to erect another gate.

Should the area remain open to the public?

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Julian is the former editor of Lovin Malta and has a particular interest in politics, the environment, social issues, and human interest stories.

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