Two-storey boathouses? Only in Malta

Abstract

Eyebrows should certainly be raised by the recent approval of a permit sactioning an existing second storey addition to a boathouse at Wied iż-Żurrieq, which was waved through despite the fact that the case officer for the planning application (PA 192/16) recommended its refusal. The case officer rightly pointed out that the proposed extension would create blank party walls on both sides of site, which would be highly visible given the area’s steep topography, and hence would go against North West Local Plan policy NWQD 3, which seeks to limit building heights in order to protect views. The same policy also says there is a presumption against further development, unless it is aimed at upgrading the tourist product or particular communal facilities.