Be the first to comment!DLH condemns “unlawful attempt” to develop ODZ land in Gharb
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Din l-Art Helwa has reiterated its condemnation what it said is an “unlawful attempt” to develop ODZ land in Gharb.
It said that in June 2020 the Planning Authority received a request to pass a new road in the area, known as ‘Tal-Mawua’ in Gharb, Gozo and have the land running along the proposed road, rezoned from ODZ to developable land.
The public has now been invited to submit its comments on the request. Representations close today.
Din l-Art Helwa maintained that the request is “unquestionably nothing more than a blatant attempt to develop over 3,000sqm of ODZ land into residential units.”
An application of this type – PC/00038/20 – concerning a change in the zoning of land Outside the Development Zone into land that can be developed is specifically prohibited under article 54 of the Development Planning Act. There is simply no legal basis for this absurd request.
DLH argued that, “the approval of this application seeking to take-up rural land, will lead to the unnecessary and unjustified loss of more of the countryside. It would furthermore lend to the deterioration of Gharb’s distinct urban landscape as this characteristic town is subjected to yet more conflicting alien development.”
It also said that “the land take-up will also have a negative effect on the agricultural sector as farmers are increasingly having to compete with developers to hold on to the land their livelihood depends on.”
DLH concluded by saying that, “there is absolutely no legal, planning, or moral justification for the approval of this application.”
On Tuesday it was confirmed that the Gharb Local Council had made a unanimous decision to take a stand against the proposal.
Residents within the locality are also up in arms about the proposed zone change and new road, citing that the Birbuba area in Gharb, Gozo is a picturesque and tranquil area characterised by its rural setting. “There is no proof of the need for further development of this lovely area, which is prized for its quaint and authentic setting and views. Its urbanisation will result in soil sealing and urban sprawl.”
The residents argued that, “the village of Gharb already has clearly identified residential areas within the Local Plan in Development Zones and there is no evidence whatsoever indicating that this land is required to support current or foreseeable future housing needs.”
Photo: DLH
