Now that the hearing about the Ħondoq development is approaching (June 30), I am really hoping the pro-environment movement is rewarded after such a long wait.

Ħondoq belongs to the people and they can only enjoy it if the proposed development for the area is refused. The Planning Authority has already recommended refusal of the project in its development planning application report. By all means, this is surely a good sign. I’m now keeping my fingers crossed that the board members attending the hearing will support their own recommended refusal.

Indeed, each member of that board will have the chance to be a part of the proud legacy of saving this area of natural beauty by voting against this environmentally and socially damaging development.

I can only fantasise about the beauty of Ħondoq were it to be returned to its original ODZ status. Ideally, it should be turned into a national park with an afforestation programme to be implemented in the immediate future. I can clearly imagine the beautiful impact of a large number of trees growing on the terraced land in question. It will surely be something picturesque to look forward to every time I am on the Gozo ferry.

An ODZ status to the area will undoubtedly safeguard it against future threats of development. It will also save it for our future generations, who deservedly merit Ħondoq’s pristine enchantment.