ERA finds Għarb ODZ application ‘objectionable’
The Environment and Resources Authority has found a Planning Control application to create a new street and change part of the zone to residential, “objectionable”.
The site is currently ODZ.
The application had been filed proposing the creation of a new street that would serve as an alternate access to Triq Birbuba in Għarb, and also to change the zoning of part of that land to residential development. The site area is 5,387 sqm, and the main existing use according to the public application form is agricultural, with the main proposed use of the site being residential.
The ERA said: “It is being noted that only a small part of the site in question has been included within scheme during the rationalisation exercise. The existing and proposed block plans clearly show that the proposed layout mostly protrudes beyond the development zone boundaries. There is no justification for the change of zoning to residential development, which would result in additional land take-up of ODZ. In view of the above, the proposal is objectionable from an environmental point of view.”
A number of representations have been filed. One person said that Għarb already has clearly identified residential areas within the Local Plan in development zones and no consideration should be given to releasing further ODZ land.”
A separate representation by an Għarb resident read: “I deem the proposal as totally useless apart just to serve the new proposed development. Birbuba area is purely a residential area with rental properties, therefore the traffic is minimal. The area is known for its quiet and quaint characteristics and is considered one of the few untouched peaceful areas in Gozo where development has been kept to a minimum (until now!) The local plans need to be respected as further development will change the structure and characteristics of the area. The take up of ODZ land for residential use should not be considered, given there are a number of abandoned properties in the area and that the little agricultural land left is important for our wellbeing and local fauna.”
Residents also raised concern that it would be only a question of time before the rest of the land would be granted residential status once the street was given the green light.
Din l-Art Ħelwa Għawdex (DLĦGħ) issued a statement on the application, and said that it reaffirms its demands for better regulations to protect the unique natural, historical and cultural environment of Gozo. “DLĦGħ is adamantly opposed to this application which must be refused on the basis that: The site is situated within ODZ and is being used for agricultural purposes; The Rural Policy stipulates that such development cannot take up agricultural land; Għarb already has clearly identified residential areas within the local plan in Development Zones and no consideration should be given to releasing further ODZ land; There is absolutely no evidence whatsoever that this land is required to support current or foreseeable future housing needs.”
DLĦGħ urges the public, NGOs and the Għarb local council to make representations against this application in order to send a clear message to the authorities that Gozitans and Maltese alike are sick and tired of destructive Planning Applications that are destroying the natural beauty of Gozo and its unique quality of life.”