New planning parameters for Ħal Mula 'do away' with mixed-use zone approach

The Planning Authority has published its proposed planning parameters for the Ħal Mula area for public consultation.

According to the PA, the proposals aim to address the current poor quality environment that residents living in the area experience as a result of the conflicting development patterns that characterise this area.

The Ħal Mula area, located just south of Triq L-Imdina, comprising a total footprint of around 0.18km², is characterised by a long history of mixed developments resulting in an interlocking of varying conflicting land uses.

Because the nature of the area has shifted substantially from the 1988 industrial land use zoning to residential and commercial land uses in a number of streets, the proposed planning parameters seek to ‘do away’ with the mixed-use zoning approach, the PA said. “Alternatively, it seeks create more specific character areas. In this respect, future proposed development which is of an industrial or commercial nature will be considered outside a number of predominantly residential dwelling areas,” it added.

The plan also ensures that a number of other areas will be retained specifically as industrial areas, the PA said, pointing out that it is in line with the original 1988 zoning. “This is to ensure the continuity of the industrial function in the area with the incentive to redevelop from industrial to commercial,” the PA added.

The PA invited the public to send their submissions in writing to [email protected] by 3 April 2017.