News

Mar 09, 2023

Persistent Planning Infringements Continue To Plague Għaxaq's Outside Development Zone

By Mario Borg Residents living near Għaxaq’s Outside Development Zone (ODZ) are

By Mario Borg

Residents living near Għaxaq's Outside Development Zone (ODZ) are expressing their frustration as illegal activities and environmental issues persist in the area.

The long-standing problem of planning infringements has recently escalated, with the contractor responsible for the violations the Barbros Group expanding the scope of their activities to a second field.

One resident expressed their exasperation, stating, "Għaxaq residents are all fed up, and the Planning Authority is not stopping this illegality… we have been pushing the PA to do something for almost two years now!"

Despite ongoing complaints and efforts by concerned citizens, no tangible progress has been made to address these illegalities, which have been ongoing for over two years.

The initial infringement, referred to as "Illegality numbered 1" was first reported to the Planning Authority (PA) in January 2021, under CM 150/21. The residents were informed by the PA that the area was intended for temporary soil storage, but it has since become apparent that more than just soil is being deposited.

The contractor subsequently moved on to a neighbouring field, referred to as "Illegality numbered 2" where construction materials are now being dumped.

Residents of Għaxaq are disheartened by the deteriorating state of the ODZ fields, which were meant to be protected to preserve a greener environment.

The unchecked dumping of construction materials and soil has transformed the once-pristine valley into an eyesore. Despite the PA issuing an enforcement notice (EC/00016/23) in January 2023, the contractor has disregarded the order, and the illegalities persist.

Furthermore, the batching plant operated by the contractor has become a source of environmental problems and noise pollution for nearby residents.

The residents assert that the batching plant should be closed down, and no further activities should be permitted in the ODZ fields, particularly due to its proximity to residential areas.

Residents have made numerous appeals to the PA over the past two years, but their concerns have gone largely unanswered. The lack of progress in rectifying these infringements has only intensified their frustration.

Accompanying photographs reveal the extent of the illegalities, showcasing the mounting rubble and construction materials that have accumulated in the area behind the contractor's batching plant.

The impacted residents are deeply concerned not only about the visual blight on the landscape but also about the adverse effects on air quality caused by the increased presence of fine particles.

Another resident highlighted the impact on air quality, stating, "More fine particles in the air that we breathe… this is purely ODZ, and nothing like this should happen… but as usual… this is a big contractor! So, he can do anything from what I’m seeing happening in this country!"

The affected residents are hopeful that increased media attention will lead to prompt action by the relevant authorities, ensuring the protection of Għaxaq's ODZ and addressing the grievances of the community.

The persistent nature of these planning infringements underscores the need for swift and effective enforcement measures to safeguard Malta's natural and environmental heritage.

Lovin Malta has reached out to Barbros Group for comment but no answer was provided at the time of publication.

What do you think about this assault on ODZ land?

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