Ask PM to withdraw Sliema project - councillor

The Sliema local council has been encouraged to formally ask the Prime Minister to withdraw the Qui-Si-Sana project development brief in order to safeguard the residents' interests being threatened by the proposed development of a car park and commercial establishments in a residential area next to the coast.

The request was made by Michael Briguglio, who sits on the council representing Alternattiva Demokratika.

"The proposed development of a car park in Qui-Si-Sana is still threatening Sliema. This project is planned to be developed on public land, in a residential area and next to the coast. The project includes a car park for hundreds of cars under the present garden, tourist-related/leisure facilities of 6,000 to 7,000 square metres and a kiosk offering catering facilities which can take up a maximum of 40 square metres and an additional 400 square metres for tables and chairs," he said.

"The Sliema local council has changed its position in favour of the proposed project when a motion was presented and now the council's official position is that residents should be consulted. Regrettably, Mepa has informed the council there is no more need for consultation and there is no need of an environment impact assessment," he added.

Mr Briguglio said the fact that the local council is not accepting the plans submitted by the developer is a positive step, "although it is still not enough to defend the residents' interests".