The Chamber of Architects has criticised the Planning Authority for the manner in which different areas of Malta and Gozo are being chosen for partial review of local plans, saying this piecemeal approach does not foster good planning.

"Instead of having a national strategy for planning, the Planning Authority seems to be taking different approaches to diferent areas, and it is not clear what criteria are being considered to determine the approach for each locality," the Chamber said.

It noted that according to press reports  earlier this year, the overall review of the local plans was not likely to take place before the next general election. Yet the PA was carryign out piecemeal reviews that lacked clarity.

The comments were made as the Chamber reacted to proposed local plan changes for Ħal-Mula, which, it said, was the victim of planning decisions taken in the past which had resulted in the creation of a community of residents and industrialists,

"Predictably, the co-existence of these diverse expectations within a restricted area has led to a situation of conflict between the two sectors, and it appears difficult to resolve these solely through a review of the Local Plan, particularly since legally permitted operations will continue to exist until such time as the owner decides to redevelop the property in question," the chamber said. 

It said the first, and more urgent approach, required in this area is for
the government to undertake a comprehensive study of the situation, to
ensure that all activities in the area are in accordance with all relevant regulations and to increase monitoring and enforcement  to safeguard the
residents’ interests and also those of the economic operators.

The chamber said there should not be a fragmentation of responsibilities and better coordination of efforts across these entities to address the problems which are causing detriment to the health and well-being of the residents and commercial operators in the area.

See the full statement on pdf below.