In view of the fresh plans filed by the DB Group, it is clear that these do not in any way address the concerns about the huge negative impact on the quality of life and the environment by the proposed project on the ex-ITS site. Changes in the revised plans include a slight reduction in the tower height but no significant changes in the massive height and width of the hotel. It is to be noted that residents’ concerns about being “buried alive” relate primarily to this monstrous hotel structure which, due to its height combined with its vast width, will overshadow the locality and throw the thousands of residents living across the road into permanent darkness. Nothing has changed in this regard.

There have also been no significant changes in the nature of the project and the activity that it will create. With the revised plans, Paceville will still invade Pembroke and Swieqi since the project will generate incessant and overwhelming commercial activity in an area that was designated by Government itself as a residential one. Moreover, such activity will create more pressure for similar commercial development in Pembroke and Swieqi in the near future.  The project also continues to pose a threat to the two adjacent Natura 2000 sites as well as the Ħarq Ħamiem Cave, both during the construction phase as well as during the operational one.

The DB project on the site of the former ITS in Pembroke has attracted widespread opposition and the greatest number of official objections ever recorded. 5,000 people objected to the first application, and 6,000 people objected to the second proposal after the Courts revoked the permit to start building. We recognise that meetings with the Pembroke Local Council have led to revised plans with more proposed open space, among other improvements, as well as a revised excavation plan. However, the project as proposed in these revised plans remains totally out of proportion and out of context, and the people will continue fighting against this threat to their quality of life and the environment.

The public has until 26 June to object to the Planning Authority against the DB revised plans. In the coming days, we will be filing our objection and informing the public on how it can object to this monstrous and damaging project.

Local Councils

1.     Pembroke Local Council
2.     St. Julian’s Local Council
3.     Swieqi Local Council

Organisations:

4.     Bicycle Advocacy Group
5.     BirdLife Malta
6.     Din l-Art Ħelwa
7.     Flimkien għal Ambjent Aħjar
8.     Friends of the Earth Malta
9.     Isles of the Left
10.  Moviment Graffitti
11.  Nature Trust Malta
12.  The Archaeological Society of Malta
13.  Żminijietna – Voice of the Left