4 comments so far.Hondoq’s fate is set to be decided on Thursday
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Photo reconstruction of the Qala Creek project by Daniel Cilia – This is an approximate view of the project with architect’s flat plans used on an aerial photo
The fate of the beautiful Hondoq Bay will be decided on Thursday when the Environment Planning Review Tribunal decides on the pending appeal.
In a unanimous decision the Planning Board had rejected the plans for a marina and intensive tourist village but the developer had appealed from this refusal.
In March, the Qala Local Council submitted its final submissions last Tuesday in the appeal on plans for a marina and tourist complex at Hondoq ir-Rummien in Gozo, which the developer – Gozo Prestige – had filed against the refusal.
Mayor Paul Buttigieg had also reiterated his call for the authorities to resolve the situation once and for all in favour of the people and those who love Hondoq.
In a statement on Saturday, Qala Mayor Paul Buttigieg said that, “after 20 years the appeal is set to be decided . We hope that Hondoq Bay will be preserved for those who love it and for future generations. Gozo needs to safeguard its natural capital and not become intensely developed and spoilt.”
I can only hope the planning board hold firm and refuse to allow this project which will damage this pretty bay. So much of your island is being damaged by over development already.
How many empty shells of buildings scar your once beautiful island.
As a visitor to Gozo for 15 years it saddens me to see its beauty and charm disappearing. I know of so many people who no longer visit Gozo and I myself will probably join those who have already left.
I totally agree with all that you say Maureen, as I also was a regular visitor to the once beautiful island, but alas it is no longer the same as the one I and so many others fell in love with, gone is the charm and tranquility that it once possessed. Due to the greed of the developers and the corruption involved they are being allowed turn the island of Gozo into a concrete jungle, and instead of bringing in tourists to the area it has the total opposite effect, as it is no longer has the appeal and charm of a unique untouched pretty island it once was. I shall hold my breath for the decision!! But I am hopeful and optimistic that the right one prevails. June
I concur with Maureen. I have been a regular visitor for over 40 years and have witnessed the growth of “shell developments” some going back to the 1980s. Xlendi has been ruined but for pity’s sake not Hondoq..
Hondoq must be for the gen public.