The planning authority yesterday sanctioned four new, larger cranes at the Malta Freeport but imposed a hefty contribution of €955,000 which will be used to fund environmental projects in the area.

The Malta Freeport was also fined €50,000 for installing the cranes before a permit was granted. The cranes have a height of 140m, just 10m lower than the Delimara power station chimney.

The Mepa board had received no objections from Transport Malta, even though the cranes penetrated aviation flight-paths by 18m. TM said it did not raise objections on the basis of the Freeport’s essential function.

Yesterday, the Mepa board sanctioned the new cranes and issued a permit for the dismantling of the older cranes and the shifting of several other cranes within Terminal One and Two.

Just last month, the Mepa board unanimously rejected a renewal application for the extension of Terminal 1 west quay at the Malta Freeport, citing the project’s environmental impact and residents’ well-being. The decision was taken after a stormy three-hour hearing punctuated with residents’ vociferous objections.

A permit to extend the quay, which included dredging the fairway and berth of the quay to increase sea-depth and reclaiming an area behind the quay wall, was originally granted in 2007.

The renewal was requested after dredging works dragged on longer than expected.

The project architect said the extension would allow the Freeport to cater for larger vessels, and that for the Freeport to maintain its place as a mainstay of the local economy, it had to upgrade its facilities and remain competitive.

Residents, however, argued that the project moved the Freeport’s operations closer to the town’s residential area, lowering the quality of life and interrupting recreational activities.

Among those speaking out against the cranes project was independent MP Marlene Farrugia.