ADPD: Proposed Marsaskala ferry landing needs impact assessment

ADPD has condemned the Environment and Resources Authority's (ERA) decision to exempt the proposed Marsaskala ferry landing from a full environmental impact assessment (EIA).

The party pointed out that by denying an EIA, ERA is also denying the possibility of a public consultation, which typically allows the public the opportunity to voice their concerns before the project is approved. 

In their statement, the party also expressed their disbelief that the same zone is still being referred to as one reserved for a yacht marina although the proposal was shelved following intense resistance from residents, showing the impact of community advocacy.

While the party believes that sea transport is a viable alternative to land transport, this must develop alongside the well-being of residents.

ADPD stated that the report issued by ERA does not take into consideration fundamental factors of the project such as the impact on the residential zone, traffic increase, and the fact that the area is used by swimmers. 

“ERA is abdicating all responsibility to protect the bay from development that can be detrimental to the protected habitat,” said ADPD official Brian Decelis.

The decision came as ERA determined that the proposed ferry landing in Marsaskala is unlikely to generate significant environmental effects, despite acknowledging the loss of protected seabed habitats.

ERA considered the development relatively small in scale and located within an already urbanised coastal environment characterised by maritime activity, residential use, and recreation.