A decision on an application to upgrade the Fort Ricasoli facility, which treats ship-generated liquid waste, has been postponed after the planning authority felt that a number of aspects had not been sufficiently looked into.
A decision to seek further consultations was taken yesterday during a hearing in which the Malta Environment and Planning Authority Board met to discuss the application filed by Waste Oils Company Limited, part of the Falzon Group.
In 2013 the developer had been granted a 30-year emphyteuses to run the facility, which was built in 1964, following a public call.
Wrapping up a lengthy debate, Mepa chairman Vince Cassar yesterday said that no decision could be taken because the planning directorate had not consulted Transport Malta, which is the maritime regulator.
His views echoed those expressed earlier by Opposition representative Ryan Callus.
The case officer says it would have an adverse impact
The board requested a copy of the lease agreement signed by the company during the last month of the previous administration.
The request stemmed from the applicant’s claim that the government had already consented to the development.
Located in the outer ditch of the fort in Kalkara, the facility takes disposals of liquid waste from vessels and industry. A filtration system is used and the final by-product – water – is then discharged into the sea so long as oil levels and other hazardous substances are below an established threshold.
The application is for the replacement of the existing boiling house, the upgrading of oil and water facilities and construction of ancillary stores, workshops and offices. Other proposed works included the relocation of a freshwater tank, construction of spill containment areas and the upgrading of all pipe works. During his presentation the developer argued that the project would minimise the visual impact of the place and improve environmental standards.
The company also expressed its willingness to relocate the plant once the lease agreement expires in 2043.
The Mepa case officer is against the development, saying it would have an adverse impact on this Grade 1 historic fort which enjoys the highest degree of protection.
Last December The Sunday Times of Malta reported that an unusual black effluent had been discharged from the plant on to the rocky shore beneath the fort’s walls.
Asked about the incident yesterday, the developer said the effluent was iron sulphide. It did not pose a hazard and the by-product was filtered to an acceptable standard, he said.