Fri Sep 13 11:56:00 UTC 2024: ## Swieqi Residents Oppose Pencil Development, Citing Height Limits and Blank Party Walls

**Swieqi, Malta -** A proposed development in Triq il-Ħemel, Swieqi, has sparked controversy among residents and the local council. The project, which involves demolishing a terraced house and building a block of five flats, has been met with strong opposition due to concerns over height limitations, the creation of blank party walls, and potential overpopulation.

Architect Christian Spiteri, representing applicant Christopher Stanley, argued that the development is consistent with the area’s evolving character and complies with local plan height limitations. He dismissed concerns about the blank party walls, stating they are temporary and will be addressed as adjacent buildings are developed.

However, residents and the Swieqi council remain unconvinced. They highlighted that the proposed development exceeds the area’s height limit by two storeys and would result in unsightly blank walls on both sides. They also pointed out that the site is bound by a contractual agreement with the Archbishop’s Curia, requiring the preservation of terraced houses on the plot.

Furthermore, they cited a recent court decision that overturned a similar project in Santa Luċija, emphasizing that new buildings must respect the context of their surroundings.

Swieqi Mayor Noel Muscat expressed concerns about overpopulation and the increasing prevalence of short-term rentals, which he believes are negatively impacting the locality through vandalism, noise, and waste management issues.

The Planning Authority deferred the decision on the planning application to October 25th, allowing for further discussions and consideration of the various perspectives.

Read More