MEPA appeals’ member files for ODZ permit

A member of MEPA’s environment and planning review tribunal, architect Robert Sarsero, has filed an application for a four-storey old people’s home on outside development zones in Santa Lucija.

The home for the elderly is being proposed on 4,472 square metres of ODZ land along Luqa Road, next to the Garnaw Valley reservoir.

Sarsero filed the application on behalf of applicant Neville Schembri, a director and shareholder in Healthmark Care Services, a company providing home care and support services to seniors and persons who need help at home because of illness or disability.

Sarsero, who was appointed chairman of the Malta Freeport Corporation by the present government, is one of three members of the new Environment and Planning Review Tribunal, a judicial body that hears appeals against decisions taken by the other MEPA boards. 

Previously, members of the tribunal were not allowed to present planning applications but this policy was changed by the present administration. Whenever board members declare a conflict of interest, they are to be replaced by substitute members.