Planning Authority Investigates Illegal Padel Courts on Manoel Island
In brief
- The Planning Authority is investigating padel courts built by Gżira United FC without a permit.
- The club's president, Sharlon Pace, has refused to comment on his personal business interests in the project.
- The courts are reportedly near completion despite the lack of legal authorisation.
The Planning Authority (PA) has launched an investigation into the construction of padel courts on Manoel Island. The project, led by Gżira United Football Club, is allegedly being completed without the necessary planning permits.
Reports indicate that the courts are almost finished, despite the absence of an approved application. This has raised questions about how such a significant structure could be built in a sensitive area without intervention earlier in the process.
Sharlon Pace, the president of Gżira United FC, has reportedly declined to explain his involvement in the project. Investigations have pointed to his links with a private company, IK Padel Ltd, which has been involved in building numerous padel pitches across the island since 2019.
The case has sparked criticism regarding enforcement, as the site on Manoel Island is part of a larger area subject to complex development concessions and public interest debates.
The Spin Room
Medium media divide. Independent media outlets are driving the investigation into the lack of permits and potential conflicts of interest.
- Newsbook: Focused on the PA's investigation and the advanced state of the construction.
- The Shift News: Strongly highlighted the club president's refusal to answer questions and his personal business links.