AD proposes local referendum for large-scale developments, demolition of Armier boat houses

Alternattiva Demokratika yesterday presented the first batch of proposals related to the environment. Addressing a press conference, party chairman Arnold Cassola said that these proposals were shaped in order to control planning and respect the little natural habitat left.

AD deputy chairperson Carmel Cacopardo listed the proposals. He explained that only 71% of buildings in Malta are occupied. In Gozo, the number is even lower. As one of the first major proposals, AD is saying that the number of empty properties in a locality should determine whether large scale development should take place or not.

AD believes that ODZ policies on rural development and petrol station guidelines should be scrapped and dismantled. The party agrees with the Nationalist Party proposal that public authorities should be appointed by parliamentary majority and not directly by the government.

The environment should be included in the Constitution so that the courts can have the power to rule accordingly, while environmental NGOs should be recognised by the law and given financial help.

An interesting proposal refers to local councils having the right to carry local referenda to decide on ODZ development in the area. Cacopardo said that this does not include projects of national importance.

AD also promises to give Fort Manuel and Ta’ Qali back to the public.

The proposed race track will not feature in the AD manifesto. “The government is simply feeling threatened by the lobby groups,” Cacopardo added.

Alternattiva Demokratika is against the development of a tunnel between Malta and Gozo. Instead, it is still hoping to see the setting up of a fast-ferry service. Carmel Cacopardo jokingly said that the fast ferry was so fast that nobody saw it coming and going.

The party criticised the lack of a national water plan and promised the demolition of the boat houses in Armier.