The planning authority’s Environment and Planning Commission has approved the renewal of a permit to erect 2 semi-detached villas and a detached villa on the Ta’ Saura Rabat Ridge.

During the hearing, architect Carmel Cacopardo, who appeared on behalf of Rabat residents argued that the original permit had been approved when the local plan designated the area as an area that should be protected. He argued that the permit should not be renewed.

But commission chairman Sandra Magro pointed out that, according to the criteria required for a renewal, unless there was a change of policy, which there was not since the approval, the commission was bound by the original permit.

The renewal of the permit was approved with four votes in favour and one against.

Speaking after the hearing Mr Cacopardo said that the site had been investigated by former auditor Joe Falzon, who had said that there were irregularities and no permits should have been issued on site.