The planning authority this afternoon unanimously approved an application for a wider T-junction at Qalet Marku in Maghtab as part of the European Ten-T network which aims to reduce accidents at junctions and bends.

Transport Malta’s architect Robert Zerafa told the board that when the board approved the widening and realignment of the Coast Road in 2012, the junction was termed reserved matter as Mepa identified the area as sensitive.

Although TM’s preferred design for the area was a roundabout, for better traffic flow, this would have impacted the marshland.

The T-junction proposal, which is similar but wider to what there is today, would be 366 square metres smaller than the roundabout proposal, so there would be less encroachment.

The proposal, he said, was a balance between the redesigning of the road and the least possible encroachment.

The board also approved an application for the excavation of half the width of Testaferrata and Enrico Mizzi streets for 33 weeks until the four underground parking levels within the Metropolis project site are extended to take an additional 126 cars.

The board also approved a daily fine of €1,000 should the extension project not be completed in time.