Approval of Portelli's ODZ pool in Marsalforn 'will set precedent,' NGOs warn

Five environments NGOs expressed concern on Monday that the Planning Authority has not outrightly refused an application for a swimming pool in Marsalforn Valley at the back of a seven-storey block of flats belonging to construction magnate Joseph Portelli and his partners.

"The swimming pool at the side of the valley is not only destructive in its own right; being situated in the lush valley, it would also set a precedent that would be disastrous, as it would give other developments along the ridge grounds for swimming pool permits," the NGOs said. 

This point, they added, had already been made by various objectors to the proposed development, including Xagħra Local Council, the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage, and the Environment and Resources Authority.

The Planning Authority’s own technical report also recommended refusal.

Yet the Planning Commission instead asked the developer to make minor tweaks to the plan, and will now decide on the application on Tuesday.

"If granted, this would set a new level of planning outrage when it comes to permitting development in sensitive Outside Development Zone areas," the NGOs said. 

"After the political party elected to government...