The planning authority has postponed a decision on an application for the review of the Ta Qali Crafts Village project after the board asked to see a more holistic development plan for the area.

Under amendments to the master plan, approved in 2007, the number of units would fall to 66 from the original 93 and the built footprint would be reduced from 21,940 square metres to 21,481, which would cover 29 per cent of the whole site.

The latest proposal would keep the original historical layout and a considerable number of historical elements on site.

The several piazzas in the approved master plan would be replaced with a central piazza and several walkways for pedestrians.

The project architect explained that, in 2011, the strategy was for operators to develop their own outlets.

Most outlets are in Nissen huts and a few are in other structures. The general appearance of the area is of neglect and the project aims to create a centre of excellence for Maltese crafts where operators showcased their products.

"We want this permit to provide the legal framework for the operators to submit their applications through a notification process", the architect said.

He said the roads would remain the same but service ducts, landscaping and street lighting would be introduced.

In 2012, the GRTU and Malta Industrial Parks signed a memorandum of understanding for the village to be developed on the present footprint.

There was the possibility of obtaining ERDF funds for the project but the decision would be taken in July.

Case officer Joe Borg said a number of huts would be kept, unlike in the previous master plan. He noted that two huts would be relocated outside the site.

The board deferred the hearing and asked to see a more holistic project for the area.