Safeguard Ramla l-Ħamra

Everybody assumes that the spectacular landscape value of the valley and the bay at Ramla constitute a fundamental point of reference for tourism in Gozo. Such a natural asset is an attraction to visitors and therefore benefits all other existing tourist businesses in Gozo. It is then obligatory to prevent the threat of opportunistic development in this area which would also damage the Gozo tourist product as a whole.

In view of the outcome of the Mepa Planning Appeals Board, I question whether the Mepa board would have been so considerate with a common citizen. The developers' appeal before Mepa should have been declared null and void, the same way as it would have been to any common citizen who fails to follow procedures accordingly.

Instead, there should be specific sustainable and ecological projects for Ramla l-Ħamra bay instead of villas and private swimming pools.

Mepa should truly safeguard the environment around Ramla l-Ħamra by including the whole area in the EU-funded and protected programme of Natura 2000. Heritage trusts and NGOs should be supported in their efforts to obtain EU funds to transform the area into an international heritage site. Its archaeological remains should be re-established and its geomorphologic features and habitat that supports endemic flora and fauna should be highlighted. Ecological walks and expeditions could take place under professional guidance.

Ramla should be promoted to obtain Blue Flag status, and it should be ensured that it remains free from light pollution. Its spectacular landscape value should not only be protected but promoted as an ideal location for astronomical observation.

The government should reclaim the land from the Ulysses Lodge proprietors, to remove the abandoned building, restore the partially concreted-over Roman pathway to its former state and restore the whole area.

The public's ideas on the ecoisland project should be seriously considered by the government. It does not matter if AD is not given any credit as long as there is the will to truly implement this project for the benefit of present and future generations.