Hondoq ir-Rummien, including the disused quarry which has left a scar in the picturesque landscape of Qala, is being proposed to be safeguarded from development and allocated for afforestation.

The Planning Authority said that it has published for public consultation new revised planning policies for the Hondoq ir-Rummien area, which policies will prohibit any form of development.

The Authority stated that the area of Hondoq ir-Rummien, which is one of the Maltese island’s most scenic and pristine areas, boasting unparalleled views of Comino and the Fliegu Channel, has been under “constant threat” of being developed.

It added that as far back as 2002, an application had been submitted for the construction of a destination port and 195-room hotel, 200-yacht marina and a tourist village for 300 apartments.

The Authority explained that proposals for an afforestation project in the area should incorporate features that will help to attract wildlife as well as the re-creation of the entire habitat. “Monocultures shall not be acceptable.”

Where possible, the Authority stressed that the afforestation projects will include routes to channel the flow of pedestrian visitors through the area. It said that “the area will not be made accessible to vehicular traffic.”

“The proposed policy also excludes any additional beach facilities, new commercial facilities or the intensification of any existing commercial uses,” the PA said.

It noted that “proposals for the upgrading of the existing quay and slipway will be considered provided that interventions will be mainly limited to the remediation of disrepair.”

The Planning Authority said it is also seeking the rehabilitation of the coastal area on the Eastern end.

The swimming zone is being reserved exclusively for bathing and no other activities will be permitted, the PA said.

It went on to say that no form of permanent and/or temporary berthing facilities for leisure or recreation will be permitted in the marine area near the swimming zone and the shoreline.

The proposed policy review of the Gozo and Comino Local Plan for the area together with the submissions received for Phase 1 may be viewed on the Authority’s website by clicking here.

The PA is inviting individuals and organisations to send their submissions related to these amendments through email address: consultation-hondoq@pa.org.mt

Submissions must be sent to the Authority by not later than the 4th of March 2024.

File photo: Gozo News/Alain Salvary

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