Two ODZ swimming pools approved in Marsaskala

Justification of the swimming pools is being made on the basis of the rural policy approved in 2014, which allows the redevelopment of old farmhouses into ODZ dwellings if the owner proves that the building was previously used as a residence

MEPA’s Environment Planning Commission has approved the conversion of an old farmhouse into two villas, each of which is to include a swimming pool located outside the development zones (ODZ) along Triq il-Blajjiet in Marsaskala – just one road off the Nwadar nature park and the site of the prospective university campus to be built by Jordanian group Sadeen.

The area has for some time been swirling in controversy: the swimming pools will be developed next to the two newly approved villas, which will replace an existing older farmhouse located across the road from the national swimming pool site.

The two villas will be built on the same footprint of the old 435m2 farmhouse, parts of which will be retained because of their historical and vernacular value.

Other parts of the farmhouse will be demolished but the existing old wall facing Triq il-Blajjiet and an external staircase will be retained. 

Justification of the swimming pools is being made on the basis of the rural policy approved in 2014, which allows the redevelopment of old farmhouses into ODZ dwellings if the owner proves that the building was previously used as a residence.

In this case the documented proof was the inclusion of the farmhouse in the 1966 electoral register.

Each pool area, including the decking facilities, will cover 75 square metres. 

The environment protection directorate had objected to the development of the swimming pools.

The farmhouse is now subject to a promise of sale agreement to applicant Marco Camilleri.