The Sliema Residents Association (SRA) has expressed 'grave concern' about the proposed re-development of Villa Degiorgio at the junction of High Street and Dingli Street.

"If this development application is granted a permit, it will irrevocably ruin the character and appearance of the 'Tlett Sigriet' area, the hub of Sliema's old village core which still has great authentic character," the association said.

Mepa is to discuss the application later this week.

The SRA explained that houses in this area, on both sides, are classic two storey townhouses all with extensive, beautiful gardens that link up together forming an open space.

"The SRA has already proposed that this garden conglomerate, along with others, be designated as a protected enclave. Construction over any one of the gardens would adversely affect the other gardens in terms of light, fresh air and ventilation. Any such permit will unleash a dreadful negative domino effect within the locality to the detriment of the remaining residents' quality of life and loss of Urban Conservation Area character."

It noted that the DCC board considering this application (recommended for refusal), had expressed major concerns regarding both the height and depth of the proposed building and had requested advice from the higher MEPA Executive.

"The development is highly objectionable because the resulting additional traffic will choke an area that is often already gridlocked from dawn to dusk. During such construction projects, residents suffer greatly due to the large number of heavy vehicles required to excavate such sites and dispose of the waste material. Any such development will inevitably add to Sliema's already excessive air pollution, which is evident from Mepa's own air monitoring stations," the residents' association said.