More than 600 Xgħajra residents and property owners have signed a letter to the Planning Authority declaring their “unequivocal opposition” to proposed three high-rise towers on the town’s seafront. The letter was supported by a further 204 individuals, environment NGOs
Moviment Graffitti and
Flimkien Għal Ambjent Aħjar said on Wednesday.
The plans are for three 15-storey towers to be built just outside SmartCity, with 14 retail outlets, 153 apartments, nine penthouses, 206 garages and 158 parking spaces.
The NGOs said 610 residents felt compelled to send their letter after the local council, led by mayor Neil Attard, performed an incomprehensible U-turn behind their back and withdrew the council’s objection to the project through a letter “secretly submitted” to the PA.
Xgħajra residents oppose proposed high-rise development maltatoday.com.mt - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from maltatoday.com.mt Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
The residents of Xgħajra are objecting strongly to plans for a high-rise development in their tranquil locality and were shocked on Tuesday to learn that the council is backing the project.
The plans are for three 15-storey towers to be built just outside SmartCity, with 14 retail outlets, 153 apartments, nine penthouses, 206 garages and 158 parking spaces.
Processing of the application “is currently suspended at the perit [architect]’s request,” according to the Planning Authority.
The local council is holding meetings with residents to discuss the development.
According to residents who were present at a previous meeting, Mayor Neil Attard said the council could not oppose the development because it is in line with floor area ratio policies.