Planning Authority approves demolition of Rabat townhouse

The Planning Authority yesterday approved the demolition of the dilapidated house situated just off of St Francis Street despite strong objections from nearby residents.

The house (photo left) is within the urban conservation area and an area of archaeological importance. The dilapidated house will be replaced by a two-storey residence (photo-montage right).

The case officer’s report says that the site consists of a single-storey dwelling located at the end of an alley and includes an extensive garden which has a wide frontage and is located on two distinct levels. “The existing house, outbuildings and upper garden are in effect located on the ancient scarp, while the lower garden is located in the actual ancient ditch. A number of caves, most probably reutilised as burial chambers are accessible from the lower garden, while underlying the upper garden is an underground passageway whilst a well underlies the existing residence. The site is designated as a class B site of archaeological importance, as well as being located within the designated area of archaeological importance for Rabat and Mdina.”

Planning Authority chairman Vince Cassar and NGO representative Annick Bonello voted against.

Before the permit is executable, the developer must submit a geological statement, which could potentially lead to a geological study.

Residents raised questions about the geological stability of the area.

Many neighbours had objected to the development, which they argue would have a negative impact on a historic ditch which runs through the property and could date back to the origins of Mdina.

A site inspection of the property by the Superintendence and the Cultural Heritage Advisory Committee established that the existing structures proposed for demolition are of no architectural or historical merit. The amended plans indicate that no excavation and rock cutting is being proposed and that the existing foundations will be used for the new construction. “This will result in the elimination of possible impact on archaeological features or other subterranean tunnels or chambers,” the case officer’s report notes.

Objections were also registered by Din L-Art Ħelwa and the Rabat local council.