The Planning Authority has approved a six-storey apartment block overlooking the Simar nature reserve in Xemxija, despite concerns over its effect on the protected bird sanctuary.

The approved development, in Triq il-Pwales, is to replace an existing two-storey maisonette, from a row of four, with a block of five apartments, a recessed floor and a garage at semi-basement level.

The project was deemed acceptable despite the four-storey height limitation in the area, as the plans will fit six floors into the 22-metre height allowed by the policy.

It was approved unanimously by the Planning Commission on Wednesday.

The plans will fit six floors into the 22-metre height allowed by the policy

Birdlife had objected to the development, which it said would have a negative impact on the habitats which make the Simar Nature Reserve a protected bird sanctuary and a unique Natura 2000 site which also incorporates Pwales Valley and Miżieb.

The area is designated a Special Area of Conservation for its habitats and a Special Protection Area for its birds apart from being an area of ecological importance and a bird sanctuary.

Birdlife warned about the immediate impact of construction and use of heavy machinery, as well as noise and light pollution generated from buildings impinging on the nature reserve and heavier traffic flow due to more residents flowing into the area.

The Environment and Resources Authority did not state a position on the development.

The Planning Directorate case officer requested only a method statement detailing mitigation measures to minimise noise and dust pollution during the demolition and construction phases, to limit the impact on the nature reserve.

A condition was imposed to ensure that the provisions set in the method statement are adhered to.

The case officer had recommended the application for approval, noting that it was in line with the provisions of the local plan.

A number of nearby residents also objected to the development, claiming that the site notice required by law “was not in place for the full period within which objections were possible” such that they did not have the opportunity to make their voices heard.

However, the case officer cited an affidavit submitted by the project architect stating that the site notice had been in place, attached to the immovable facade, as required.  

Sign up to our free newsletters

Get the best updates straight to your inbox:
Please select at least one mailing list.

You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link in the footer of our emails. We use Mailchimp as our marketing platform. By subscribing, you acknowledge that your information will be transferred to Mailchimp for processing.