From pig farms to wedding halls?

My in-laws strongly oppose the development proposed in the planning application PA 00262 /06, which has also caught the attention of Alan Deidun (The Sunday Times, May 4).

My mother-in-law (well into her eighties) and her family live in their farmhouse in Misrah Suffara Road, a few metres down the road from the site. The proposed conversion of a pig farm to a wedding and multi-purpose hall, including a private parking area, close to Għar Barka hamlet, limits of Rabat, was first refused in April last year. Since the site is outside the development zone, the development runs counter to Structure Plan policies.

I agree with Dr Deidun that such a proposal should be refused to maintain the rural fabric and peace in the surrounding area. I urge the Malta Environment and Planning Authority to do its utmost to protect the environment. By taking irrational decisions, ordinary citizens face irreparable damage.