The valley, known as Il-Wied ta' Għajn Żejtuna, at Santa Marija Estate in Mellieħa has been scheduled by the Malta Environment and Planning Authority for the protection of its biodiversity and natural heritage.

Mepa explained that the valley-bed still sustains a permanent and constant flow of freshwater which springs from the Mellieħa perched groundwater body at the interface between the Upper Coralline Limestone Formation (Mtarfa Member) and the Blue Clay formation.

"Apart from its ecological importance, the valley imparts a significant degree of aesthetic value, having an important containment role to play-to avoid the coalescence of the villa development, a role that should be preserved to safeguard both the intrinsic visual aspect and the hydrodynamic function of the valley-bed," Mepa said.

Part of the valley supports a semi-natural woodland consisting of mature Aleppo pines (Pinus halepensis). This semi-natural woodland merits protection not only as part of the whole valley, but for its distinctive ecological importance both in terms of watershed protection and intrinsic values, the Authority said.

The watercourse and immediate banks are scheduled as a Level 2 Area of Ecological Importance (AEI), in line with Structure Plan policies. The semi-natural woodland (Aleppo pine copse) is scheduled as a Level 2 degree of protection.

Mepa said that although the valley is located within the development zone, physical development will be limited to the maintenance of existing structures that are already covered by a development permit. Proposals for bungalow development adjacent to the scheduled area will need to include a block plan showing the delineation of the rear property wall aligned with the scheduling boundary, and the scheduled part of the site retained in its natural setting.