25 properties in Sliema given heritage protection by Planning Authority

25 properties, most of which are of neo-classical design in Sliema have been given protection status by the Planning Authority.

The properties, which are located in two areas in Sliema “display a collective value” as they form part of a row of similar buildings with the same height, design, proportions, materials, style and massing.

The properties, said the PA, were given a Grade 2 protection status.

One cluster of houses is located close to St Patrick’s School, in Triq Dun Mikiel Rua, Triq Guze Howard, Triq Poutiatin Tabone and Triq San Gwann Bosco. The other cluster, which is comprised of five houses, is located on Triq il-Katidral. One other house is on Triq San Pawl.

According to the PA, all properties were built within the same period, spanning the late 19th century up to the mid 20th. Though they have been protected for their collective value, each has its own individual merits that distinguish them from other buildings.

Common features include traditional characteristics, some with a front garden and others with a large back garden, as is common of the particular period.

“Evidently, these buildings were commissioned by prominent patrons designed by celebrated architects and built by some of the finest masons and craftsmen in the Maltese Islands at the time.”

The PA added that it is currently in the process of assessing more properties around the locality, which also merit scheduling.

The Authority use the planning tool of scheduling to legally protect properties that are deemed to “contain heritage significance.”

Sliema is a heavily urbanized coastal town, mostly developed after the mid 19th century, following the arrival of the British forces in Malta. Most buildings were built for British military personnel, who were stationed on the island at the time. The town is generally characterised by straight streets, arranged in a radial or orthogonal layout.

The full list of properties that are scheduled can be seen from the online register here.