The environmental NGO, Nature Trust (Malta) has said tht it appeals to MEPA not to consider the proposed mega project including a marina at Hondoq ir Rummien in Gozo. The NGO said that it feels that this proposal goes against the Eco Gozo concept since this development is considered by NTM as unsustainable development.

Nature Trust said it recommends that rather then the site being given for speculation and over development the authorities should embark on rehabilitating this site and changing it into a Green Park project with afforestation, nature trails and natural heritage concepts for the enjoyment of all Maltese and tourists alike. This would help to further attract eco tourism to Gozo and serve as another area on this Island where visitors can enjoy nature and admire the view on Comino and Malta.

The NGO went on to say that it hopes that MEPA will keep up the momentum it had started in a positive way and not accept further development in outside Development Zones such as Hondoq.

"The national authorities should focus on existing built up areas to further improve tourism to our islands rather then continue to allow development in ODZ areas which only serve to further destroying the remaining few natural sites which at times give the visitors the sense of wilderness and peacefulness many search for."

NTM concluded by saying that it feels that if our National authorities truly believe in the eco-Gozo concept then such projects cannot ever be even considered. Hondoq is today designated as a Rural Conservation area and an Area of high landscape value making it the ideal candidate for promoting eco-Gozo.

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