Development Briefs will start to be decided in open Public Meetings as the Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) seeks to further restore public confidence in its commitment to higher levels of transparency and public participation.

The development brief that will be the first to have its fate decide in public will be that for the area known as Il-Ghirghien in Birzebbugia. The public meeting, which will be held at the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta next Thursday, will enable all interested parties and the public to participate prior to a decision that will be taken by the MEPA board. This Brief, as required by the Development Planning Act (1992), encourages an integrated planning approach of future development in this area. The recommended development direction, as guided by the Marsaxlokk Bay Local Plan was for this strategic planning document to integrate residential, social and community facilities with open spaces and recreational land.

During the formulation of this draft brief, the Authority said it has on three separate occasions over the past two years, invited the public to participate in the process.

MEPA Chairman Mr Austin Walker describes this decision as “another small step forward, that will reassure the public that we will continue to explore avenues that will guarantee greater levels of transparency and public participation. We want to win back public trust and remain determined to ensure that this Authority will improve in the areas of participation, efficiency and transparency.”

Although the venue, where the public meeting will be held accommodates a sizable number of people, the public is encouraged to call the Authority on telephone number 22902018 to reserve a seat.

Permalink: Greater transparency and public participation – MEPA