Government considers Cottonera for ‘American University’ campus

The government has commissioned an audit firm to conduct a social impact assessment on the possibility that the ‘American University of Malta’ opens a campus at Cottonera.

Front Harsien ODZ, who submitted feedback on this proposal to the audit firm Nexia BT, said that it is willing to discuss any proposal located on already developed sites so long as the proposed development at Zonqor and any other ODZ site is dropped.

“This also includes the construction of roads on ODZ areas due to traffic impact and air quality impact,” the Front told the audit firm.

Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said earlier this month that the controversial private university project will definitely be split up, with part of it built in Marsaskala and another part elsewhere in the south. However, he didn’t expand on whether the part that will be built in Marsaskala will be built on virgin land outside development zones at Zonqor Point.

“The government’s decision to explore the possibility of locating the campus in Cottonera may be a step in this direction which vindicates the demands made in Malta’s largest ever environmental protest,” FHO said in a statement. “However, we insist on full transperancy, full consultation with local communities, local councils and NGOs and the publication of all agreements and studies related to the AUM development as proposed by Sadeen construction group.

“When the possible sites are available for public consultation, this should involve a comprehensive consultation process with local councils, residents, NGOs, experts and other stakeholders,” the Front said. “This should not involve a rushed procedure, but should involve meetings for feedback as well as adequately timed processes for written feedback.”