Il-Kollettiv slams government's fear to make bold changes to planning bills

Activist group Il-Kollettiv has slammed the Prime Minister’s decision to call an early election and stop the consultation of his controversial planning bills.

In a statement, Il-Kollettiv Secretary Wayne Flask welcomed the withdrawal of Bills 143 and 144, saying that this prevents the legislation from being enacted in its current form. 

However, he condemned the government for a reluctance to pursue meaningful reform in the planning sector.

“Despite our efforts, backed by 13 resident associations from around Malta, PM Robert Abela has chosen to silently bow down to the wishes of the fragmented construction lobby, despite Michael Stivala’s bid to report the government’s Affordable Housing scheme to the EU Commission. We’re not surprised: residents and NGOs don’t have the kind of hidden cash to spend on financing electoral campaigns.”

Il-Kollettiv argued that keeping only provisions to suspend works under appeal as was promised in 2023, could have been a meaningful reform after more than a decade of what it described as developer-driven policy.

The group called for accountability within public institutions, specifically naming Johann Buttigieg, CEO of the Planning Authority, and government consultant Robert Musumeci. The group alleged both individuals had acted in ways that favored private interests and should no longer hold public office.

Il-Kollettiv called for residents and NGOs to play a key role in any future reform discussions, warning that current planning decisions continue to contribute to overdevelopment, congestion, and environmental degradation.

The organisation, together with Residenti taż-Żurrieq, also announced plans for a press conference in Nigret on May 17 aimed at giving residents a platform during the election campaign.