The Malta Planning & Environment Authority (MEPA) board today turned down two development planning applications at Ta' Fgieni in Attard.
These applications proposed the development of semi-basement garages and residential units over 3 floors and additional penthouses in Triq Lorenzo Manche.
Last August, following the scheduling of Villa Bologna, its gardens and boundary walls as a Grade 1 property, the Authority had declared this area as a scheduled buffer zone so as to conserve the Villa Bologna complex.
The buffer zone, which extends beyond the two sites in question and includes both Triq Lorenzo Manche and Triq il-Ghenba, now only allows restricted development for buildings not exceeding 2 floors from street level. Both streets abut Villa Bologna and its gardens.