New planning legislation 'weaker, less transparent, more susceptible to political control' - Valletta Alive Foundation

The Valletta Alive Foundation has expressed concerned about the impact new planning legislation would have on urban conservation areas, particularly on Valletta.

“The new planning legislation will result in a planning system that is radically different from the one that has been operating for the past 23 years.  It is weaker with reduced checks and balance; it is less transparent and more susceptible to political control.

“The new planning legislation is likely to impact negatively historic areas including Valletta, because it increases the likelihood of development permits that are incompatible with the historic context.  Over a number of years, the cumulative effect on Valletta's urban heritage value could be devastating,” it said.

Apart from the impact on the urban heritage, VAF said it was also concerned on the impact the new legislation would have on residents.

“By facilitating development, there will be an increased likelihood of developments that will inconvenience residents.  This will undermine the liveability of Valletta and is not in the interest of Valletta’s regeneration.”

Three changes being brought about by the new legislation, it said, were of particular...