Various MEPA policy functions are to be transferred to a new policy unit within the Office of the Prime Minister in terms of the long-awaited reform of the authority, announced today by Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi. The authority will then focus on its role as regulator. It will also no longer be responsible for transport planning, mineral resources, climate change issues and the management of construction sites.

One of the main priorities of the new policy unit will be to draw up policies on development in outside development zones, the aim being to introduce zero tolerance. The unit will also decide issues such as local plans, and the floor area ratio (and height) of buildings.

The reform lays down that the authority will have two Development Control Commissions working full time, rather than part-time, as at present. Their chairmen will both be deputy chairmen of the MEPA board, providing for better consistency in decision making.

There will also be a new Enforcement Unit to strengthen the law enforcement role of the authority.

When development applications are filed, there will be a voluntary screening process whereby applicants will be able to speak to MEPA so that they can be given directions on how their applications can best conform to policies. Such meetings will be recorded in the respective files.

When applications are submitted, a unit manager will classify them as straightforward or complex. Straightforward applications are to be decided in up to 12 weeks while those that are complex can take up to a maximum of 26 weeks. In applications for outside development zones, straightforward applications will take up to 26 weeks and the complex ones up to a year.

All parties affected by proposed developments will have the chance to submit arguments before the DCC.

The MEPA board will henceforth include a representative of environment NGOs and an expert on cultural heritage, both nominated b the government.

The Appeals Board is to be replaced by a Planning Review Tribunal which will have the right to stop development if there is even a third party appeal in some circumstances, particularly in sensitive areas.

The concept of Outline Development Permits will end, but applicants will be able to ask for a brief from MEPA before submitting an application. The application has to include the consent of the land owner.

The concept of reconsiderations will also stop, but applicants will be able to appeal, or submit fresh applications.

Applicants will have a duty to inform their neighbours by registered post of their planned development. In sensitive areas, including ODZs, information billboards outlining the plans will have to be set up.

Where environment impact assessments are required, the developer will still be able to choose his consultants, but MEPA will be able to vet their work. There will also be a register of consultants.

The MEPA Audit Office will become an office under the Ombudsman, but MEPA's own internal audit office will be strengthened.

Further details can be found on www.opm.gov.mt/mepa . The Times will be carrying full details in a supplement tomorrow.