Decision on Ġgantija buffer zone apartments postponed
In brief
- The Planning Authority delayed a decision on a new apartment block near Ġgantija Temples.
- NGOs argued that a heritage assessment ignored their technical objections.
- The Planning Board chairperson adjourned the meeting following the complaints.
The Planning Authority has postponed a decision regarding a controversial proposal to build an apartment block near the Ġgantija Temples in Xagħra, Gozo. The site is located within the heritage site's sensitive buffer zone.
The delay came after several non-governmental organisations (NGOs) raised serious concerns during a Planning Board meeting. The activists argued that a heritage assessment used in the process had completely ignored their technical objections and the potential impact on the UNESCO World Heritage site.
Heritage experts and environmental groups have long opposed the development, fearing it would damage the historical context of the ancient temples. They claimed the current assessment was flawed and did not meet the required standards for such a significant location.
Following these heated arguments, Planning Board chairperson Emmanuel Camilleri decided to adjourn the session. This move allows for further review of the documents and the objections raised by the public and heritage advocates.
The Spin Room
Low media divide. Independent outlets focused on the procedural delay and the specific complaints made by NGOs.