FAA applauds Heritage Malta, slams Mepa

Flimkien għal Ambjent Aħjar has praised Heritage Malta for purchasing vacant land surrounding lesser-known prehistoric temples in Mġarr to ward off encroaching development.

However, the NGO slammed the Malta Environment and Planning Authority for allowing the situation to arise.

The temples, close to Skorba temples, were threatened when a permit was issued for structures that would visually intrude on the temples, it said.

"We are very grateful to Heritage Malta for intervening in this way although it reflects how poorly our historical environment is defended by the very authority that has a duty to safeguard national heritage," FAA's Astrid Vella said.

Pottery found near the temples is thought by archaeologists to belong to a pre-temple occupation which has yet to be excavated.

FAA called for the activation of Mepa's Heritage Fund, which was intended specifically for the purchase and upkeep of listed buildings or neighbouring land to ensure the maintenance, restoration or preservation of Malta's archaeological and architectural heritage.

FAA also called on the authorities to use EU funds, which will soon become available to purchase heritage sites and "green lungs" from landowners.