Approval looks unlikely for Wied iz-Zurrieq kiosk application

Plans for a controversially-situated kiosk overlooking the picturesque Blue Grotto have received a blow after the Planning Directorate advised the Malta Environment and Planning Authority to turn down the application.

A final decision is expected to be taken on 18 February.

The  21 square metre kiosk is being proposed on vacant public land in Congreve Road at the entrance of a belvedere which overlooks the picturesque sea views of Wied iz-Zurrieq.

The application proposed by Paul Farrugia and presented by architect Robert Musumeci has created a storm of controversary in the locality, with the Labour-led Qrendi council taking a firm stand against the proposed development.

The case officer has deemed the proposed kiosk’s terracotta coloured cast iron roofing and  green cast iron frame and shutters as being out of context with the surroundings.

The case officer report states that the kiosk would be in breach of the local plan, which excludes any further development in the area.

Moreover the proposed kiosk is deemed to be in breach of MEPA’s policy on kiosks as it will block seaviews for a stretch of more than five metres. And the case officer notes that the services offered by the proposed kiosk are already provided by numerous establishments in the area.

Qrendi local council has unanimously voted against the construction of the kiosk.

Qrendi mayor David Schembri had objected to the proposed development as this would obscure the sea view as seen from Triq il-Congreve overlooking the belvedere, to the detriment of visitors to the area.

The council also expressed fear that the application would encourage further encroachment on public land.

Architect and Nationalist MP Anthony Bezzina has also presented an objection on behalf of the owners of various commercial establishments in the area. In his letter of objection Bezzina claimed that the kiosk presents health and safety issues.

This is because prospective clients of the new kiosk would have to queue and wait to be served on the road, which lacks a pavement, thus causing a health and safety hazard to pedestrians and motorists alike. He also notes that since the road is a two-way carriageway a pavement cannot be constructed.