I read with some sadness the letter from Rudolph Grima (The Sunday Times April 5) concerning the tragic sight of the empty Grand Verdala Hotel. We cannot turn the clock back nor instantly replace the jobs and money lost to the economy, over the last 10 years.

However, anyone who knows the site cannot fail to recognise what a unique and wonderful opportunity this provides for Rabat and Malta. Where else on the island is there a world class vacant hotel site, with possibly one of the most scenic views of the island, just crying out for an imaginative hotel development?

The economic impact on Rabat, its businesses and employment, would be immeasurable. What about an international architectural competition to raise awareness, interest and investment? This could really happen if the Malta Environment and Planning Authority takes early action to safeguard the site for hotel use, and the government supports such an initiative.

In a time of fearing the impact of a global recession, now surely is the time to put in place such economic initiatives for the future.