Front Ħarsien ODZ and Nature Trust object to complex on site of former Halland Hotel
Front Ħarsien ODZ and Nature Trust said they were objecting to plans to develop a nine-storey residential complex on the site of the former Halland Hotel in Ibraġ, opposite Wied Għomor.
In two separate statements, the NGOs said they were not against the redevelopment of the site, but were concerned that the imposing new structure would abut the valley.
They expressed concern over the visual impact of the new building on valley views.
“The redevelopment of older structures should be an opportunity to minimise the visual and environmental impact and not to increase it. Unfortunately, the trend is for developers to propose larger, more intrusive structures when replacing old ones.”
Moreover, they highlighted the importance of maintaining a buffer zone between valleys and residential and tourism development.
“Presently, the pool area creates a visual buffer zone between the valley and the hotel. Since the site is now being redeveloped, this could be an opportunity for the developers to give back something to the local community by creating a public landscaped area while using the footprint of the existing building.”
We also call on the PA to ensure that a public pathway which currently provides pedestrian access is retained, Front Ħarsien ODZ said.