Residents object to Birgu belvedere kiosk

Residents are objecting to the development of a kiosk on Birgu’s belvedere, which they say would spoil a panoramic view overlooking the harbour between Triq La Valletta and Triq Santa Skolastika.

The permit, which is being recommended for approval by the Planning Directorate, limits the area designated for tables and chairs to a five-metre radius around the proposed kiosk. But residents point out that this will take half of the open space, which is one of the few in the neighbourhood. They also point out that access to half the square will now be limited to people who buy from the kiosk.

A decision by MEPA is due on 1 April.

They also claim that the kiosk will be in violation of the Policy and Design Guidelines which state that kiosks will not be permitted where they “interrupt, block or intrude into open and valuable views”.

The proposed kiosk is separated from neighbouring dwellings by a two-metre wide alley located around four metres from the building line, thus raising concern on lack of privacy and odours.

The case officer justifies the development by citing an outline permit issued in 2008 against the advice of the Planning Directorate. 

The proposed kiosk proposed by Arthur Grech and designed by architect William Lewis is 2.8 metres high and according to the case officer will not intrude on views.

But MEPA’s own Heritage Advisory Committee has objected to the design of the kiosk.