Gharghur : inconsistent defence of ODZ areas

Abstract

The recent approval of a proposed mas sive extension to the Għargħur fireworks factory has rightly caused considerable angst on several fronts. The development will amount to 205 square metres above ground and five blast walls covering a further 150 square metres, leading to a total commitment of the entire area. Firstly, the environmental concerns. They are succinctly condensed in the representation by the Environment Protection Directorate (now the ERA – Environmental Resources Authority), which describes the site as being located along the valley sides of Wied id-Dis, which are characterised by rich maquis vegetation, in particular mature Carob trees. The area is proposed for scheduling (level 2 AEI). “The proposed requirements including the scattering of buildings, excavation for wells, sumps, underground shelter and foreseeable ancillary interventions, e.g. formation of access, uprooting of trees (for safety reasons), suggest that the proposed development should not be located within this relatively unspoilt and undeveloped landscape.”