Be the first to comment!Figures quoted by NGOs on Comino Hotel are “outdated” – HV Hospitality
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HV Hospitality, responding to figures relating to the built-up area of the new Comino Hotel and Bungalows as quoted by NGOs, said that they are “outdated and do not reflect the plans currently being considered by the Planning Authority.”
The NGOs – BirdLife Malta, Din l-Art Helwa, Flimkien ghal Ambjent Ahjar, Friends of the Earth Malta, Moviment Graffitti, Nature Trust Malta – FEE, and Ramblers’ Association of Malta, were referring to a “fact sheet” issued on Friday by the developer, which said that “the project’s built footprint will be reduced by 5,122 square metres from the original development and will accommodate fewer guests.”
They stated that “this claim masks the fact that the current site is made up of buildings that take a small proportion of the site, while the rest consists of 8 tennis courts, a volleyball court, trees and natural landscape.”
“The new plans show a significant increase of built-up area for both the hotel with an increase of 1394 m2 and a massive increase of 2936 m2 for the bungalows at Santa Marija Bay (source: EIA / Belvedere Architects, July 2021).
“These plans clearly show an increase of Gross Floor Area of 43.5 %. Although Hili have since reduced the number of bungalows from 21 to 19, this will still result in a much higher building density for the site,” the organisations said.
In a statement on Sunday, the company said, “as is normal in such projects, the plans have gone through several iterations, following stakeholder consultation.”
“Before accusing anyone of misleading the public, it is vital that the NGOs make sure they are quoting correct and updated figures,” HV Hospitality said.
It stated that, “the current proposal reduces the built footprint by 5,122 square metres and will accommodate fewer guests, creating an overall reduction in intensity.”
The company reiterated that “the serviced bungalows are not and will not be for sale. They will be operated as one single touristic resort by the hotel operator.”
