The Planning Authority has turned down a controversial application to convert an agricultural store at Ħondoq ir-Rummien into a souvenir shop.
The application by AAC Ltd, a company fully owned by Ta’ Frenċ Estate Agents, was unanimously rejected by the Planning Commission in a hearing this morning.
Environmental organisations and the Qala local council were among several objecting to the application, which would have maintained the same footprint as the existing store but added timber paving and a rubble wall around the shop.
Objectors said approving the project would open the door to the building being further developed, potentially into a catering establishment.
READ: Developers appeal Ħondoq decision
The Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) had said the project would have a negative environmental impact and set a precedent for more rural land in the area to be taken up for commercial use.
In a hearing this morning, the project architect argued that, while ODZ, the area was already committed with a number of kiosks. The architect said the proposed souvenir shop, selling "local crafts", would be a preferable alternative and a potential tourist attraction.
The reuse of "existing structures worthy of conservation” is encouraged by the Strategic Plan for Environment and Development, as long as the use is "compatible with the rural character and prevents formalisation of the countryside".
But architect Carmel Cacopardo, appearing for objectors, said the proposed commercial use was “neither legitimate nor necessary”, and that the mistakes of the past should not be used to justify further development.
Lawyer Claire Bonello added that two applications for Ħondoq ir-Rummien to be designated as public domain were currently pending, and would be prejudiced if the development was approved.
"This is an encouraging decision by the PA against the creeping commercialisation at Ħondoq," Dr Bonello told the Times of Malta after the decision.
"What we are opposing is a ‘one foot in the door’ policy whereby small applications like this gradually become something much bigger."