Nature Trust (Malta) and Din L-Art Helwa have expressed concern at recent government statements on land reclamation and new development regulations within Mepa and asked the authorities for more information about their intentions.

While both NGOs agreed that minor development amendments that could have negligible impact should be fast tracked within the building application process, transparency and professional control had to remain in the system to avoid abuse and encourage best practice.

They expressed disappointment that no environmental organisations were consulted or contacted before such a change, stating that this did not augur well especially with Malta being an EU country were public consultation and the right to information by civil society was a guiding EU principle.

The two NGOs said they will be requesting a meeting with the Parliamentary Secretary in charge of Mepa so that the new amendments could be explained.

NTM and DLH also voiced concern at proposals for private development to declare interests in land reclamation schemes saying this could threaten the most scenic coastal areas which could fall prey to speculation for commercial purposes.

“Such activity may result in total degradation of marine habitats and compromise the protected posidonia meadows that abounded in Malta's waters and which were safeguarded by EU law, in particular if silt curtains and monitoring is not done and hazardous waste is dumped.

“Popular relaxation areas and coastal landscapes important to a sustainable tourism industry can be lost and the economy should not have to depend on construction to be stimulated. Furthermore the coastline is protected by several international conventions and changing its nature will be in direct contravention.”

NTM and DLH are looking to the authorities to expand on their proposals and to give environmental NGOs the opportunity to submit comments and recommendations.