I live in L-Iklin, in a road proposed for terraced houses and maisonettes. Recently an application has been submitted to the Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) for the demolition of a terraced house to make way for flats and a penthouse.

L-Iklin forms part of the Central Malta Local Plans and it is stipulated that the net floor area of each residential unit must exceed 120 square metres. The provision of this policy supersedes the DC2005 policy relating to the minimum size of dwellings for residential development applications in the L-Iklin residential area and this as a measure to safeguard against over-development.

Clause No 9.1.14 of the Central Malta Local Plans also states that "current trends in L-Iklin show that developers' efforts in maximising the use of each site is resulting in high density developments. The cumulative effect of this trend may result in the residential area of L-Iklin being developed in a manner that is excessively dense to the detriment of the quality of life of residents. This policy is thus intended to ensure that any redevelopment takes place at a density that is more compatible with the surrounding areas."

Taking all this into consideration, it stands to reason that the permit should not have been granted. Not only was it not refused but it was deferred until draft amendments are finalised.

It seems that contractors and developers are not finding enough terraced houses for development which comply with these requirements and are pulling strings. There is a whiff of elections in the air!