ERA notes ‘significant environmental concerns’ over proposed development at Garden of Eden

The Environment and Resources authority has noted “significant environmental concerns” raised by a proposal that could potentially see additional commitment of undeveloped ODZ land on the area known as Garden of Eden, on Triq il-Barrieri, Zurrieq, built up.

The proposal for the site would see the demolition of the existing building and the proposed construction of a number of cabanas with pools for tourist accommodation, which according to the plans seem to be situated on both the main area, and the makeshift car park across the road.

This would also include including ancillary facilities, reception, tennis court and car park.

According to the plans, the total built up area of the site would be 1,524 sqm, while the total site area stands at 23,342 sqm.

The ERA, in its letter, said that, “the proposed development raises significant environmental concerns.”

“This application is proposing the additional commitment of undeveloped land at the northwestern parts of the site to accommodate a more scattered development. It is unclear whether all existing interventions are covered by a valid permit or otherwise. Additional details on the site history including a clarification of approved plans covering the site are being requested to enable ERA to assess the proposal.

“With regard to the extensive area currently used as a makeshift car park, the disturbed state of the site is not considered as a valid commitment justifying further development, especially when noting that there is a pending enforcement notices on part of the site. Instead, the disturbed area should be restored to its pristine state in line with a method statement approved by ERA.”

Without prejudice to the overall assessment of the case merits as above, the ERA said that the proposal also requires further screening, including an Environmental Impact Assessment.

“The proposed holiday complex/village is located outside development zone and has a site area of over 2.3 ha.”

The ERA also highlighted that the proposal may have a potential impact on a Natura 2000 site, mentioning the requirement of further assessment.