Din l-Art Helwa Ghawdex (DLHGh) has said that it “strongly supports” the joint proposals made recently by The Malta Chamber and the Gozo Business Chamber, particularly to “regulate better protection of the unique natural, historical and cultural environment of Gozo; to control the spread of development in ODZ areas and to ensure the wise and considered use of the Gozitan landscape, while respecting the culture and authenticity of the island.”

DLHGh questioned why the Government and the Planning Authority “persist and allow developers to challenge any logical and emotional arguments by allowing them to continue with disastrous developments in sensitive Gozitan sites, leaving behind a complete ruin.”

It added that, “the lack of respect for the ‘common good’ continues even when the Gozitan and Maltese public, Gozitan Mayors, all environmental NGOs as well as all Gozitan and Maltese Chambers of Business / Tourism are speaking with one voice to stop the destruction of Gozo, and to protect and preserve the traditional architectural heritage of the island, the lifestyle and the rural and coastal views and scenes.”

DLHGh urged the government “to take immediate action on the three main recommendations to stop the decay, so that Gozo can breathe a sigh of relief until policies and planning guidelines that are currently in place are reviewed and strengthened.”

These three recommendations are:

Twelve-month suspension of DC15 Annex 2 regarding all new developments in Gozo (Annex 2 allows the construction of five floors in three-storey areas, which generate extreme densities, which disrupt the quality of life and ruin the character of Gozitan villages).

Immediate moratorium for a period of twelve months on all ODZ applications (Until new guidelines are drawn up allowing consistent planning decisions to be taken in line with new strict policies, in order to end the systemic misuse of ODZ land).

Imposition for twelve months of an extension of 250 metres of the boundaries of the Urban Conservation Area (To create a buffer zone to protect heritage in the heart of villages pending conservation studies and examination of Neighbourhood Plans, with the imposition of strict guidelines).

DLHGh concluded by saying that it is their “strong view that if immediate action is not taken on the above-mentioned proposals, Gozo will surely fail, together with the economic prospects and the tourism product, while immediate and positive action will protect and preserve the island for today’s generation and those of the future.”

Photo: Din l-Art Helwa Ghawdex

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