Association seeks permit for ODZ fireworks factory in Hal-Għaxaq

A brand new fireworks factory is being proposed in an agricultural area located outside development boundaries in an area known as il-Hbula in Ghaxaq. The San Gabriel band club from Tarxien is proposing the fireworks factory.

But the approval of this fireworks factory is unlikely, considering that in the past two years, the Malta Environment and Planning Authority turned down five applications for ODZ fireworks factories.

These included proposed factories in Tal-Ghajn in Mellieha, in the limits of Nadur in Rabat Malta, in Tas-Sanap in Munxar Gozo, in Ix-Xaghri tal-Isqof in Rabat and another a short distance from the Chadwick Lakes.

While MEPA is becoming more stringent on ODZ fireworks - especially in view of the safety concerns of farmers - the pyrotechnics organisation argues that the building of new ODZ fireworks would improve safety standards.

Labour spokesperson for Justice and legal consultant of the Malta Pyrotechnic Association Michael Falzon argued that to improve safety, MEPA has to issue more permits for new fireworks factories in the countryside.

Ghaxaq already has two fireworks factories: the St Mary's fireworks factory and the St Joseph fireworks factory. The latter was the scene of a recent incident after waste from the production of fireworks exploded outside the factory. No one was injured in the incident.