Nature Trust calls for refusal of Portomaso extension

Nature Trust (Malta) has appealed to the Malta Environment and Planning Authority to refuse the new Portomaso development application, which the MEPA board is due to discuss tomorrow morning.

"The developers are proposing the construction of 46 new apartments in an area of ecological and historic importance. The site features a bastion that is protected by law," Nature Trust executive president Vince Attard said.

"The original permits for the Portomaso development were categorical with respect to no extension being allowed. The islands' coasts are public land and MEPA should ensure that the little bit of open space that is left in the area is left undeveloped for the public's enjoyment."

MEPA issued two outline development permits in July 1995 and February 1996, both of which include a condition which says: 'No extensions/enlargements of this development, its individual elements or any related development within or outside the site will be permitted. Any proposals for the alterations to the approved plans will only be considered if they contribute to an improvement in the design and quality of the project and all such alterations will require the approval of the Planning Authority.'

Full development permits were then issued in June 1996 and February 1998. Both stated that no extensions or enlargements of this development, its individual elements or any related development will be permitted.