Four environment NGOs - Ramblers, Flimkien ghal-Ambjent Ahjar, NatureTrust and MOAM, have welcomed the news that controversial development at Bahrija valley has been halted as investigations into the granting of the controversial permit take their course.

Reacting to remarks by PN president Victor Scerri, who owns the Bahrija site, the NGOs said they wanted to clarify that at no time was any reference made to the permit being issued after the election. It was other permits that were mentioned as being granted recently, referring to areas Outside Development Zone such as Wied il-Ghasel.

"The NGOs have no interest in attacking any individual but choose rather to focus on the Development Control Commission which approves permits recommended for refusal by the Case Officer. The NGOs will also continue to challenge architects who specialise in obtaining dubious permits, regardless of which side they sit in Parliament."

FAA, Ramblers and Nature Trust said they were not against agricultural, infrastructural or other bona-fide development in the countryside which respected planned policy and environmental constraints as well as honouring European and international obligations.

The trusted that a thorough investigation would be carried out by the MEPA Auditor and called on MEPA to handle this matter speedily so that justice would be done to all parties.