The planning policy for the Ta’ Masrija area in Mellieħa is being reviewed with the possibility of removing the floor-to-area ratio for the site, preventing developers from increasing the height. The review, published on Monday, also aims to have a master plan for the area, indicating road alignments, land uses and building heights.

Situated on the ridge opposite Miżieb, the site is mainly made up of a disused quarry and presently has three separate planning applications for a 460-home apartment complex. Complete with underground parking, the project covers an area of around 24,000 square metres – about the same size as five football pitches.

The partial review of the area’s planning policy would also “eliminate the need for comprehensive planning” by land owners provided any development followed the planning authority’s master plan, it said.

It would also “prohibit” any floor-to-area ratio on site, meaning the developers would not be able to waive floor space to be able to increase the height of the building.

The planning applications for the apartment complex include the demolition of abandoned structures and further excavation of the site to build the underground car park. The complex also includes offices, open spaces and facilities such as a gym.

The entire site has been derelict since the quarry closed in 1996.

Representations and feedback can be sent to the authority by January 20 on nwlp@mepa.org.mt or addressed to Director of Planning, North West Local Plan Team (PC 0046/13), Forward Planning Unit, PO Box 200, Marsa, MRS 100.