Munxar stables project irks Nature Trust

Nature Trust has expressed “great concern” at the proposed construction of a garage and a vet’s office in a scheduled area that enjoys Level 2 protection, in the Munxar area of Marsaskala. 

The development, presented by Nicholas Cassar, will place three existing rooms set over an area 41 square metres to construct six stables, a 109 square metres building consisting of a garage and a vet office and a 44 square metre manure clamp.  

Nature Trust called on the authorities to consider issues related to vehicular access and waste management since presently access to the area is restricted.

An agri-tourism project proposed in the vicinity of the area has also led to a public outcry. The proposed complex would have consisted of eight guest rooms and a restaurant, a semi-basement wine bar, a health and fitness centre and a conference facility and a basement hosting an agro-food processing centre.

The Marsaskala local council earler this year unanimously voted against the proposed 80,000 square metre agri-tourism village.

The South-End Agro-Tourism project, proposed by contractor Rennie Scicluna, has been met with disfavour from the Planning Authority in a screening letter.

The PA has told the developer that his proposal is not in line with the Rural Policy and Design Guidance’s policy because it falls within a Level 2 Area of Ecological Importance, unless it can be demonstrated that the development will not compromise the site scheduling characteristics. 

The entire land, currently used for fodder, will continue to be used for agricultural purpose but other crops instead of fodder would be cultivated. Two floors underneath the agro-tourism lodging facility will be excavated “instead of building scattered buildings... much more efficient and sustainable.”