A planning tribunal refused a request to build an equestrian and horse riding school in an outside development zone in Marfa.

The appeal was filed in 2011 after a planning commission refused to grant a permit to build an equestrian park and horse riding centre in a road off Triq L-Armier, Mellieħa.

The developer argued that his application had been recommended for approval in “all stages”.

Over a span of five years, several consultations had been held with the planning authority’s various directorates and government departments to the extent that the original plans had been modified to accommodate their respective requests.

It was in line with the Marfa Action Plan, which allowed equestrian establishments. The site was also earmarked as a major recreation area.

However, the authority had argued that the proposal did not conform to the action plan and the North West Local Plan because it was designated as part of a woodland conservation area. Also, equestrian developments were not allowed in designated scheduled or protected areas.

In its decision, the Environment and Planning Tribunal pointed out that the planning commission refused the application in line with the local plan and policies.

A management plan for the area was needed and the area was earmarked as a picnic area that excluded any type of equestrian activity.

Horse riding activities could not be built in a scheduled, designated or protected area, the tribunal added.

Also, although the Marfa action plan did mention equestrian routes, the tribunal said no specific locations were earmarked. It turned down the application.