The shooting range planned for Mosta is expected to attract “high end sports tourism to Malta... and hundreds of athletes and their coaches and staff will be coming from all over the world...”

The scale of such activity must be supported by appropriate preparations and would be attended by hundreds of enthusiasts. Surely this activity and the shooting noise level, 150dB (A), would clash with the surrounding tranquil environment.

It is a pity; otherwise the Missionary Society of Jesus could open its doors to partake of this business bonanza.

Nevertheless, the issue is not about profits or target shooting but the siting of the range.

Why on earth create such a controversy? Is it not possible to find a place away from residential areas and thus not trample on the rights of others?

There is another solution, which might be costly for the project owners. An ambient noise level clause: the activity from the ranges must not increase the MSJ ambient sound level by more than 3dB (A). Infringements carry a substantial daily fine and closure if no satisfactory action is taken.

Otherwise, invest in the Bidnija shooting range, an excellent solution. Great results are guaranteed from this place!

The proposed ranges contravene the parameters of established regulations because they are in a sensitive and ODZ area. Also because the Jesuits’ retreat house is located in a quiet area, therefore protected by LN 193 of 2004 on preserving quiet areas and sensitive buildings.

British clay target shooting regulations impose a noise buffer zone over flat farmland of at least 1,500 metres from a noise sensitive location.

The planned ranges are facing north, hence fronting the retreat house and less than 200 metres away from the building.