SOS Hondoq News

Monday, May 10, 2010

Ħondoq Bay project rears its ugly head... again

Published on the Times of Malta on Sunday 9th May, 2010 by Leo Attard.

It seems that after the lull, the storm over the Ħondoq Bay project is looming again. Signs have been put up showing the project with its yacht marina, hotels, restaurants and apartments.

All this at the expense of the natural environment, the bay itself, and of all those Maltese and foreigners who flock to Ħondoq in the summertime to relax at one of the last remaining natural bays in Gozo, and the only bay there with light bluish sand.

And who wants to destroy this beauty and this refuge? Greedy real estate developers who are simply not satisfied and never will be until they have raped every inch of the island that offers a view for sale.

Let's face it. The average Maltese and those starting off in life will not be able to afford it. It is argued that the hotel will provide employment. Then why did the luxurious Mġarr Hotel, with even better views, close down and is now being rebuilt as a block of flats? How long will the developers take before turning their hotel into more flats?

I am sure if it were my land the Malta Environment and Planning Authority would have said 'no' to my plans for development. It makes me wonder what sharks are swimming in the pool.

Let's think of future generations. Let's not ruin the tranquility that Ħondoq offers. Let the authorities concerned recall the Qala people's referendum that cried out loud and clear: 'Save Ħondoq'.

For once, they should champion the cause of nature - otherwise, we can forget about eco-Gozo.

To view the comments, go to

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100509/letters/hondoq-bay-project-rears-its-ugly-head-again