Sliema townscape 'prejudiced' by new development

The Malta Environment and Planning Authority has approved two additional floors in Howard Street and Arturo Mercieca Street in Sliema, which according to its own internal panel on cultural heritage will prejudice the “aesthetics” of this part of Sliema’s townscape, which is characterised by one-storey townhouses.

The Cultural Heritage Advisory Committee (CHAG) noted that there are no constructions above one storey in this part of Sliema.

“The committee notes that the construction of the extra floors will prejudice the aesthetics of the area.”

The development involves the demolition of three separate buildings which include three traditional townhouses in the classical style and built in the inter-war period to make way for 12 new residential units.

The Planning Directorate justified the approval of this development by stating that although it took note of the CHAG’s objection, the local plan clearly permitted development consisting of four-storey development in this particular zone of Sliema.

Moreover, it noted that the architect has revised plans to ensure that the development does not look like one big mass but as a “vertical extension of a number of separate buildings”.

The Sliema local council had objected to this development, describing it as a case of “over development” in an official representation sent to MEPA in December 2013.

“The surroundings have already been subjected to much development lately to the great detriment of residents, a number of which are ailing elderly people.”

The Sliema council expressed its opposition to further development of apartment blocks in the locality due to the adverse impact on residents’ health and quality of life and the town’s traffic management and infrastructure.