The Malta Development Association (MDA) has expressed “strong disagreement” with what it described as the “proposed blanket measure” suggested by the Gozo Tourism Association’s for a “comprehensive ban on demolition and excavation activities in Gozo during the summer break.”

The GTA had made the suggestion during an interview in the media.

The MDA highlighted the “potential adverse impact on the livelihoods of employees and businesses involved in these activities.”

In a statement, the MDA said that this proposal extends beyond the current break which encompasses specific streets listed by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA).

The Association added that “expecting businesses to remain idle for three months is economically untenable.”

The MDA stressed that the financial strain, “includes the inability to cover employee salaries, interest payments, licensing fees for trucks and equipment, and rent during the downtime.”

Recognising the “potential ramifications” on the tourism industry, the MDA said it proposes constructive measures to improve and mitigate the situation:

“Expand the ban to cover all types of construction activities, both public and private, in areas designated as “Entertainment Priority Areas” in Gozo’s Local Plan.

Establish transparent criteria for the list of roads subject to the demolition and excavation ban during the summer break on an annual basis.

Ensure that areas with high tourism accommodation are adequately represented, addressing inconsistencies in the current selection process.

Publicly disclose the list of selected streets and other decisions, including proposed measures, well in advance. This will enable investors and contractors to plan their schedules and transition to non-affected projects.

As a new rule, the list should be published by the end of October the year preceding its implementation.”

The MDA said that it “remains optimistic” that the GTA will “consider and endorse these proposed changes for swift implementation, with the potential inclusion of the upcoming summer season.”

The Association went on to say that it believes that a “collaborative approach will ensure a balanced and effective solution that addresses both the needs of the construction industry and the preservation of the tourism sector in Gozo.”

The MDA concluded by saying that it intends to engage in discussions with the Minister and relevant stakeholders to ensure that an “adequate balance is met, fostering a collaborative resolution that accommodates the concerns of all parties involved.”

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