More agricultural land earmarked for relocated Burmarrad petrol station

The Planning Authority is considering a second application for an ODZ petrol station in Burmarrad 1.2 km away from the one approved last year.

The proposal by Bonnici Stores Limited dates back to 2007 and proposes the relocation of the existing kerb-side fuel service station in Burmarrad to a site to the south of the hamlet.

The aim of the project is to alleviate the traffic congestion caused by the existing kerb-side fuel service station in Burmarrad, particularly during refuelling by road tankers.

An Environmental Impact Assessment presented last week, reveals that the project will entail the removal of approximately 3,600sq.m of soil. Whist the majority of the site is fallow, the southernmost part has been recently cultivated and consists of irrigated land. According to the EIA the whole site could potentially be cultivated.

The impact on the landscape character of the area is considered to be of major negative significance as the proposal introduces an element which is out of character with the rural environment.

The site is located along Triq Burmarrad, approximately 113 metres to the south of the Burmarrad Development Zone.

The petrol station will be covered by a large five-metre canopy structure and will include seven fuel dispensing points, one LPG dispensing point; two charging stations for electric vehicles;  a car wash, a garage for vehicle maintenance and testing; a  retail unit selling car parts and accessories and an office.

The government is currently considering a revision of the policy facilitating the development of ODZ petrol stations, prompted by concern expressed by Environment Minister Jose Herrera.