---
title: "NGOs Urge ERA to Reject Comino Tree Removal Permit for Hili Group Project"
date: 2026-08-06T07:58:53.191+00:00
updated: 2026-08-06T23:03:01.257+00:00
topics: ["Planning", "Environment", "National"]
canonical: https://filqosor.com/article/2026-08-06/ngos-urge-era-reject-comino-tree-removal-permit
source: Fil-Qosor
---

# NGOs Urge ERA to Reject Comino Tree Removal Permit for Hili Group Project

## In brief

- Environmental NGOs are urging the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) to reject a permit for the removal of hundreds of trees on Comino.
- The tree removal is part of a proposed development by the Hili Group on the protected nature reserve.
- Developers dispute claims of 800 trees being removed, stating the project will add 55,000 new trees and plants.

Environmental non-governmental organisations (NGOs) are calling on the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) to refuse a permit that would allow the removal of hundreds of trees on Comino. The trees are slated for removal as part of a proposed development by the Hili Group on the island, which is designated as a protected nature reserve.

ERA had previously issued a permit (EP 1472/22) in February, authorising the removal of the trees. However, NGOs are now pressing the authority to reconsider or postpone its decision, citing environmental concerns.

The developers, the Hili Group, have responded to the criticism. They dispute claims that as many as 800 trees will be removed, and have pledged that the project will ultimately lead to the planting of 55,000 new trees and plants on the site.

The debate highlights ongoing tensions between development proposals and environmental preservation efforts, particularly in sensitive ecological areas like Comino. ERA is expected to make a final decision on the matter soon.

## The Spin Room

**Low media divide.** Both independent outlets reported the calls for ERA to reject the permit and included the developer's response, presenting a balanced view.

## Updates

- **2026-08-06:** Updated with reporting from MaltaToday and The Malta Independent, confirming the developer's rejection of the NGO's claims.

## Sources (4)

- [Times of Malta](https://timesofmalta.com/article/era-urged-put-off-decision-hundreds-trees-comino.1132361)
- [The Malta Independent](https://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2026-08-05/local-news/800-trees-in-Comino-could-get-the-chop-if-ERA-gets-its-way-NGO-warns-6736291915)
- [Lovin Malta](https://lovinmalta.com/lifestyle/environment/moviment-graffitti-urges-era-to-reject-permit-to-cut-800-comino-trees/)
- [MaltaToday](https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/143641/graffitti_urges_era_to_reject_permit_to_remove_800_trees_in_comino)

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Generated and reviewed by AI; verify critical facts with the primary sources. When citing, link readers to the canonical article: https://filqosor.com/article/2026-08-06/ngos-urge-era-reject-comino-tree-removal-permit