L-Ahrax tal-Mellieha : the basis for an action plan

Abstract

L-Ahrax tal-Mellieha constitutes the remotest part of mainland Malta. It presents a sharp contrast between its popular beaches and the surrounding countryside, which is traditionally thought of as a "wilderness" area. A wide range of peculiar rural features of conservation value, including spectacular cliffs, old military outposts, traditional agricultural structures and rare natural habitats such as sand dunes, are identified in this report. Yet this area has not been spared from the impacts of inappropriate development and inconsiderate use. The touristic, recreational, agricultural and infrastructural sectors have all had a major share in contributing to locally severe environmental degradation. Some of the major problems interact synergistically and intensify the pressures on the environment; such is the case with the provision of access routes to remotely sited developments, which has unleashed secondary problems such as trampling, uncontrolled tipping and illegal development. Signs of environmental deterioration are becoming increasingly evident, even in the more "inaccessible" (as well as vulnerable) peripheries of the area. The existing legal and planning context has also been analysed with respect to the area's needs, and has been found to be only partly adequate. Sectors requiring action, opportunities for improvement and constraints to problem solving have therefore been singled out and used in the formulation of site-specific proposals for improvement, with a view to a more rational exploitation of the existing resources. Recommendations range from remedial action and enforcement to zoning, traffic and visitor management, education and the provision of viable alternatives to misuse.