A proposal for the redevelopment of the derelict Grand Hotel Verdala in Rabat would be less of an eyesore on the skyline than the existing building but would generate more traffic noise emissions, a study has concluded. 

The findings are some of the conclusions of the Environmental Impact Assessment which was published for public consultation as part of the planning process. 

Inaugurated in 1971 as a 160-bedroom five-star hotel, it ceased operations in 1997 as part of a major redevelopment project led by construction magnate Angelo Xuereb. However, the project never materialised until, in February 2017, a fresh application was submitted by Mr Xuereb on behalf of Royal Hotels Limited. 

Under this plan, it is being proposed to construct a new five-star hotel with 40 guestrooms and 17 serviced apartments, a private residential complex of 85 apartments, four shops and underground parking for 179 cars.

The study notes the new development will have a smaller footprint and a “lower height profile” than the existing building.  

The study points out that the impact on landscape character is considered to be “generally positive and of major significance” in relation to the urban character of the area. The same conclusion was reached with regards to the im-pact on visual amenity.

“In respect of 10 of 11 viewpoints assessed, it is considered that the scheme will improve the view when compared to what it is currently, with the change ranging from minor to moderate signi-ficance,” the EIA concluded.

Smaller footprint and a lower height profile

However, there will be loss of agricultural land as unroofed terraces of the ground level residential units in one of the blocks will encroach on 726 square metres outside the development zone, the report notes.  

The project’s overall footprint is of 6,507 square metres. 

Another negative impact flagged by the report has to do with the noise emission from traffic which will increase once the development is completed, especially in Inguanez and St Catherine streets. In view of this, the study calls for a green travel plan to mitigate the issue, and the adequate infrastructure to promote the use of bicycles and motorcycles. However, in terms of emissions, the impact has been evaluated as not significant. 

The EIA states that the construction phase is expected to last 30 months, noting that most of the site had already been excavated.

It also remarks that the geological impact of this project will be of major significance, even to the building itself. The report says that special measures should be taken to ensure that during the drilling of pillar foundations, there would be no excessive softening of the clay, which could jeopardise the stability of the site and contaminate the water table. 

With respect to the impact on cultural heritage, the study says this is “uncertain”. Though the site had been previously excavated and no artefacts had been found, it notes that, being an area of archaeological importance, nothing could be excluded.

The EIA public consultation closes on June 12 and submissions can be made by e-mail on eia.malta@era.org.mt or by post to EIA Team, Environment and Resources Authority, Hexagon House, Spencer Hill, Marsa, MRS 1441.

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