The planning authority had a conflict of interest when it recently recommended to increase the height limitations on four-and five- star hotels, NGO Flimkien Għal Ambjent Aħjar said.

In a statement the green lobby group claimed that Mepa’s suggestion had been made by a board made up exclusively of the planning authority’s personnel and tourist industry operators.

In its proposals, the authority is suggesting that “more than two floors over and above those permitted in the local plan may be considered, provided the design constitutes a landmark with unique aesthetic characteristics in the urban context”.

The FAA said the review of hotel height limitation policy would not oblige hoteliers to improve their surrounding environment.

“This will increase overshadowing of neighbouring properties, depriving them of light, air and solar rights.”