Protecting Gozitan valleys

Abstract

Gozitan valleys, unlike their Maltese counterparts, have largely not borne the brunt of urbanisation and been spared development. However, a particular Gozitan valley skirting Borg Għarib Street and Smirat Street in Għajnsielem, seems to have set an unenviable precedent in Gozo. The long-winded history of the development in question starts with application PA 03603/03 to build a dwelling and underlying garages in these streets. The development application was initially refused but was then given the green light on condition that no access from the lower level is approved. However, a makeshift concrete platform/ramp encroaching the valley was subsequently erected, composed of building debris and concrete, presumably to allow access to vehicles and heavy machinery needed on the construction site.