Proposal to kill Ħondoq’s natural haven

• 

Published on the Times of Malta on Monday, 25th July, 2011 by Helen Duxbury.

While recently holidaying in Malta, I spent a day with friends who live in Qala on the island of Gozo. I was taken by them to the beach at Ħondoq. I was deeply impressed and moved by the beauty of the bay and the surrounding scenery. I found it to be a wholly tranquil, unspoilt and truly lovely spot after the bustle on the mainland in Malta, as well as a rare haven for wild life.

It was 6 p.m. and many local people from Qala had come to the beach to swim and meet their friends and neighbours. There was a fantastic community spirit as these people gathered on their precious beach to enjoy their beautiful surroundings and each other’s company. After a refreshing swim, my friends were informed that this unique area is threatened with redevelopment for tourism and the local community are shattered by the plans that are being proposed.

As a visitor, I wish to add my protest at such plans taking effect. The island of Gozo is still unspoilt. If developers are allowed to get their way at Ħondoq, it will terminate the beauty, peace, lifeline for wild life and haven for the local community that Ħondoq and the island of Gozo offer generally.

I appeal for a reconsideration so that this area will be left untouched in its natural beauty. Far better for visitors to experience Ħondoq in its natural state than a resort of concrete hotels and apartments which would be an utter tragedy for this jewel of an island.

To view the comments, go to http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20110725/letters/Proposal-to-kill-ondoq-s-natural-haven.377150