Bahar ic-Caghaq restaurant to be redeveloped
New building to replace existing Tulip restaurant exceeds height limitation by five metres but incorporates old facade
Glass will be used extensively in the new building, which will retain the facade of the old structure
Architect's design for the building
The Environment Planning Commission has approved the redevelopment of the old Tulip restaurant in Bahar ic-Caghaq, set on the newly widened coast road, with a larger and more contemporary structure.
The new building, which includes the extensive use of glass, incorporates the building’s original façade, including the ornate doorways and arches.
The older building was not scheduled but was deemed as having cultural heritage importance by MEPA’s advisory heritage panel, the Cultural Heritage Advisory Committee.
Following the HAC’s objections the front façade of the building was incorporated in the design of the new larger building, which will be 13 metres high, exceeding the 8.5 metre height limit envisioned for this area in the local plan.
The case officer justified this deviation of policy noting that this was being done to retain the existing façade, over which a new roof structure will be added.
“It is understood that the proposal seeks to reach a balance between redeveloping this building and safeguarding the important features of the old building.” He also notes that the building is in an unstable and dangerous state.
The new development will occupy a floor space of 547 square metres set over three storeys and includes contemporary design features. The restaurant will include a pizzeria and outside dining areas.
Charles Grech was the only board member to have voted against. The project was proposed by Falbra Limited.
