A set of strategic objectives for the transformation of Mrieħel Industrial Area into a high quality enterprise hub have been published by the planning authority for public consultation.

The move follows the authority's decision, just over a year ago, to include Mriehel among the areas where high rise buildings may be allowed.

The authority said today the proposed objectives are in line with the new Strategic Plan for the Environment and Development (SPED) which identified the area as an enterprise hub with the vision of directing new jobs in the core economic development sectors.

The proposed objectives include the designation of an Urban Regeneration Priority Area (Urpa) in Mrieħel, providing a general policy framework for its regeneration and transformation into an attractive, efficient and green place.

The objective is also to set out a detailed land use framework including site layout, building heights and broad design guidelines which also takes into account existing landmark features, while also addressing impacts on long distance strategic views from Mdina towards Valletta with tall buildings within the area.

The full list of the proposed objectives, together with the maps, may be viewed from the authority’s website here.

Mriehel was already selected by Mepa last year as an area for high rise buildings - buildings of more than 10 storeys above ground, and applications have been filed for at least four towers.

The public and all interested stakeholders may sent their submissions on e-mail: mriehel@mepa.org.mt by January 22.

A second public consultation phase will be held once the new proposed policies and maps are completed.