AD: No real need for commercial zone in Wied Incita

The green party said that it would make more sense for the applicant to first address the irregularities already present on the site before submitting a proposal

AD have called on authorities to address the large number of irregularities in Wied Incita quarries before considering new applications
AD have called on authorities to address the large number of irregularities in Wied Incita quarries before considering new applications

Alternattiva Demokratika (AD) deputy chairperson Carmel Cacopardo has said that there is no real need for a commercial zone in Wied Incita, so close to a residential area.

“We insist that there is no need for a commercial zone so close to a residential area,” said Cacopardo. “Even the proposal for garages for Small and Medium Enterprises is in principle objectionable since the zone is very close to residences that were issued a permit a very long time ago.”

Cacopardo added that “nobody is considering the impact on residents of traffic that will be generated as a result of the proposed development - a 158,000 square metre industrial park for small- and medium-sized enterprises, topped by a solar farm.

“The proposal for a solar farm is intended to divert attention from the projects negative impact,” claimed Cacopardo.  

Moreover, he insisted that it would have been better for the authorities to ask the applicants to address irregularities already present on the site.

“Instead of an application for a permit with a detailed proposal for the development of the zone, the applicant should be asked to address irregularities that have been accumulating,” said Cacopardo. “Following this, the rehabilitation of the zone should be considered, including complete cessation of quarrying activities.”

Only after this has happened should an application be considered continued Cacopardo.  

AD Attard local councillor Ralph Cassar said that the very fact that quarry operators want a new quarry, in addition to “filling the existing quarries with garages, warehouses and
retail outlets” confirms that the current quarries have been exhausted.

He argued that the terms and conditions of a 1967 emphyteusis deed with the government – the owner of the land - have been completely ignored.

“The intentions of the current quarry operators are clear: turning this area into a built-up zone,” said Cassar