'Exclusively for tourism'

The Malta Environment and Planning Authority stressed yesterday that the permit for the re-development of the former Ulysses Lodge at Ramla Bay was issued exclusively for a tourist complex.

For the first time since its inception, Mepa has entered a condition in the permit which allows the sale of the property only as a whole complex and only for tourism purposes.

Mepa said that the villas on the re-developed footprint may not be sold or leased for residential purposes.

There is also a limit on tourist residency - tourists may not lease a villa for more than a year and, if using time-share, for not more than two months in a year.

Mepa added this condition is registered as a public deed and enforceable not only through the Development Planning Act but also through the civil courts.

Mepa reiterated that proceedings for the withdrawal of the permit may be instituted by anyone who has proof (of irregularities) which is accepted by the Development Planning Act.

Without this proof, all allegations of irregularities are void, Mepa said.