Ħondoq project's impact on sea and traffic

Published on the Times of Malta on Monday 28th June, 2010 by David Pisani, PRO, Żminijietna - Voice of the Left.

The fact that a few years ago, the Malta Environment and Planning Authority rejected the proposed development of a cruise liner terminal inside Mġarr Harbour area due to environmental considerations, as the area is a habitat for various protected species including a seaweed known as Posedonia meadow, means that Ħondoq ir-Rummien should be given the same treatment.

After all, the same species is found in Ħondoq ir-Rummien and is being threatened by the development of a yacht marina. The traffic impact statement of the proposed project has not yet been finalised and published.

One wonders why information of such high public interest was not published on the day of the recent public meeting or given to the council. People have a right to such information.

The referendum held in 2002 clearly shows that 85 per cent of Qala's residents disagree with the proposed project at Ħondoq ir-Rummien. The majority of the council members are also against the project.

Mepa should automatically re-ject the proposed development based on the fact that the area is of ecological importance and of public use for swimming purposes. The proposed yacht marina will destroy one of the most beautiful and clean beaches that are accessible in the Maltese islands.

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