A number of residents in Triq is-Salina have written to the Malta Environment and Planning Authority board formally opposing the application for the development of pig fattening units adjacent to their houses in Magħtab.

In their letter, the residents said the proposed development, if approved, would create a health hazard to them and their families and would also be in violation of their fundamental human right to enjoy their property. Moreover, it would also violate established planning policies including the Development Planning Act.

The Mepa board is expected to meet today to discuss the outline development application on Triq is-Salina. The case officer recommended granting the permit but the residents are calling on the Mepa board to take into consideration existing guidelines and policies and the EU's Common Agricultural Policy.

In their letter, Marco and Sandra Borg, John and Geraldine Portelli and Chris and Claire Sacco Bowman said the proposed units are away from other existing farms in the area and will thus disrupt further the rural character of the Magħtab settlement.

They said the proposed site is immediately adjacent to three residences and will only be separated by a common dividing wall and is also in close proximity to other residences. The area, they claimed, is surrounded by good, arable agricultural land and the proposed development will adversely affect the farming community who are also objecting to it.

Moreover, they said, the site is a few metres away from a catering establishment and will be detrimental to it through noise, smell, pollution, unusual operating times, health hazards and other negative attributes usually associated with animal farms.

The letter sent to Mepa's Director of Planning was copied to Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi and to Resources and Rural Affairs Minister George Pullicino.