An application by Gozitan developer Joseph Portelli, which will add 73 apartments to create a “monstrous” 125-unit complex in Sannat has been approved today by the Planning Commission.

The complex would stand just 300 metres from the cliffs of Ta’ Cenc and has been the subject of objections from numerous NGOs and individuals.

Astrid Vella, FAA’s Coordinator stated that, “the Planning Authority has just ensured the `uglification of Gozo, with the approval of this monstrosity. Objectors, including myself, repeatedly raised the point that this violates all design guidelines and policies on volumes and massing, being so jarring with Gozitan village landscapes.”

She pointed out that “it also violates the Gozo/Comino Ridge Policy of max 3 floors, but that was side-stepped as were issues re traffic, noise, air and light pollution for Sannat residents and endangered nesting birds nearby.”Ms Vella went on to say that “one objector testified about how he was approached to buy one of the flats last year, and told that half were already sold, so sure were the developers that the permit was assured. Yet the Chairman Stefania Baldacchino refused to acknowledge that the PA is responsible to look into such things.”

“As one objector said, the PA didn’t even bother to pretend, with the Chairman giving most of the replies for the developer, and Joseph Portelli’s architect Saviour Micallef, not even bothering to argue his case, so sure was he of the outcome,” stated Ms Vella.

Astrid Vella concluded by saying that “before his election Robert Abela had repeatedly promised `design would become a priority at the PA.’ Now he’s saying it again. Does he really think anyone believes it?”

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