A set of proposed objectives to guide the planning authority in the drafting of a new Policy and Design Guidance policy under the Environment and Development Planning Act have been issued for public consultation.

The main aim of the new policy document is to serve as a tool for sustainable development planning, the enhancement of the rural and urban fabric and improvement in quality of life.

The document includes mandatory general policies which give a clear direction, guidelines meant to encourage creativity, innovation, and suggest alternative solutions - these would emphasise aesthetics and the relationship with the contextual environment and technical details which consist of a list of mandatory standards to ensure high quality development.

Provisions which are found in the current planning document and which are thought to undermine the quality of urban environment and quality of life, need to be eliminated.

The guidelines are aimed to revise the policy and design guidance for the Urban Conservation Area and Scheduled Buildings and to encourage good intervention practice. They include good practice guidelines on conservation, the use of renewable energy, and the sustainable use of natural resources.

Individuals and organisations are being invited to send their submissions and comments to the director of planning, DC2014 Mepa , St Francis Ravelin, Floriana, e-mail - dc2014@mepa.org.mt by February 17.