Plans to add two storeys to an old building in Valletta’s historic Biċċerija quarter will “physically mutilate” the existing fabric and destroy important viewpoints, objectors have warned.

The building in Triq il-Gendus, close to the lower end of Old Bakery Street, forms part of a block which is almost completely made up of the old abattoir, currently undergoing a €7.5m makeover.

The storeys would create a blank party wall overlooking the Grade 1 scheduled Biċċerija.

The Superintendence for Cultural Heritage, which is objecting to the proposal, described it as a building of “historical and architectural” value and noted its proximity to the scheduled Auberge de Baviere.

The plans, which will make extensive internal and external alterations as well as increasing the height, have been recommended for refusal. However, no decision was taken when the case came before the Planning Commission, instead being referred upwards to the full Planning Board.

A board hearing was scheduled to take place yesterday but was deferred until next month.

The SCH has said the development would have a negative impact on the surrounding streetscape, particularly as it will create a blank party wall overlooking the Grade 1 scheduled Biċċerija.

Issues pertaining to sanitary regulations have also been raised, but the project architect has argued if brought in line with sanitary laws, the building volume would not respect the characteristics of Valletta.

In an objection to the PA, Reuben Grima, a nearby resident and cultural heritage professional, said the proposal would see the building’s existing historic fabric “mutilated beyond recognition”.

He said the current height limitation of the city block allowed for extensive views of the Auberge de Baviere from the perimeter road, which would be blocked by the additional floors.

Moreover, the low roofline of the surrounding block formed an integral part of the Valletta city plan.

“The result is that the roofscape of the Biċċerija works as an elevated piazza, permitting air, light and vistas of the sea to reach many of the surrounding residences, as well as the Bishop’s Palace,” Mr Grima said.

“The value of this urban ensemble is therefore not limited to architectural history, but is also an integral and valuable component of the quality of life of the residents and of the neighbourhood.”

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