MEPA set to approve store in Bingemma fort

The Planning Directorate is recommending the approval of a new agricultural store in Bingemma fort, a historical building located in an Area of Ecological Importance.

Both MEPA’s Environment Protection Directorate and MEPA’s advisory committee on natural heritage had strongly objected to the development because the site is designated as an Area of High Landscape Value.

“The proposed construction is considered inappropriate due to the sensitive nature of the area and the relevant scheduling,” the natural heritage panel said.

The case officer had originally objected to the development because applicant Kevin Bezzina already had enough storage place on his holding.

The policy sets a 15 square metre limit to the size of stores for holdings which are between four and 10 tumoli in area. 

But the recommendation was changed to a positive one after Bezzina, who was represented by the architectural and design firm XYZ Limited, submitted evidence that the existing store had been removed. A condition being imposed on the developers is to surround the store with trees. A decision is expected next month.

The Superintendence for Cultural Heritage has not objected to the development of a store in the historical fort.