The planning authority is systematically demolishing the local plans, Alternattiva Demokratika and an NGO warned this morning.

During a joint press conference between Alternattiva Demokratika and Flimkien ghal Ambjent Ahjar in Attard, AD deputy chairperson Carmel Cacopardo said: “The proposal to permit an additional two floors for retirement homes in urban areas will create more intensive development.”

“As a direct consequence, the area where this proposal is applied will witness an increase of traffic problems, addition infrastructural pressures as well as shadowing of buildings restricting the utilisation of solar energy for the generation of electricity.”

He said we have now become accustomed to Mepa first drawing up local plans which should have considered our localities holistically and subsequently drawing up a string of exceptions which cancel policies applicable to sectors such as hotels, petrol stations, shooting ranges, stables, areas outside the development zone.

Mr Cacopardo cited the case of the Mtarfa Isolation Hospital, which notwithstanding that the consultation period came to an end yesterday has been subject to a development application since last June for the addition of a number of floors.

This hospital was subject to a call for expression of interest last year subject to the rules and policies then applicable. The current process of policy revision which will make it possible to develop different proposals casts the whole expression of interest process in doubt as it places some of those who had an interest at a disadvantage.

“This is a clear indication that land use planning policies are being used to the advantage of some particular individuals and not to improve the utilisation of land and buildings,” he said.