Public consultation for Ħondoq extended

The time allowed for public consultation on the controversial development proposal for Ħondoq ir-Rummien has been extended.

The public now have until June 11 (instead of June 3) to comment on the Environment Impact Assessment for the project.

The proposal incorporates a five-star hotel, 285 residential units and villas, shops, restaurants and a marina for some 150 boats. It has been dogged by controversy since Gozo Prestige Holidays filed an application for the development in 2002.

The €120 million development in a disused quarry was inspired by the "hanging garden effect" of villages dotting the Amalfi coast in Italy but environmental groups and residents have not been impressed.

In 2002, Qala council held a referendum in which 85 per cent of the village residents voted to keep Ħondoq ir-Rummien bay free of development. They remain strongly opposed to the project, especially the marina, as witnessed during the heated hearing organised by the Malta Environment and Planning Authority at Qala primary school on May 27.

Copies of the draft environmental impact statement (EIS) may be inspected at the Malta Environment and Planning Authority, St Francis Ravelin, Floriana and at the Qala local council during office hours. Digital copies of the EIS are available on CD from Mepa offices.

Written submissions on the impact of the proposed development should be sent to the Director, Environment Protection Directorate, Malta Environment and Planning Authority, St Francis Ravelin, Floriana or at eiamalta@mepa.org.mt, by not later than June 11.