Clear aspiration, wide consultation on planning reform

In recent weeks, the planning reform took centre stage as the government presented two bills in parliament. These proposals are not final; they will be refined further through continued discussions directly with the public and within the House of Representatives.

The proposals have met a mixed range of reactions and a healthy national debate. We have been clear that public submissions will actively shape the decision-making process for this important yet sensitive reform. Our approach is to engage, listen and then decide.

More than two years ago, Prime Minister Robert Abela underlined the need to strengthen citizens’ rights to appeal development permits.

This was never meant to be a quick technical adjustment but a wider reform based on a commitment to fairness and transparency.

Work on the reform began soon after but the process was deliberately measured. While some criticised the pace of the reform, the prime minister explained that taking the necessary time was essential to ensure that the reform addressed not only current shortcomings but also managed injustices that had accumulated over decades.

The tabled blueprint is anchored on three key principles: greater discipline in planning decisions, transparency in processes and certainty for both residents and developers.

It introduces tougher measures against abuse and places sustainable development at the heart of the system.

This means prioritising projects that respect the environment, protecting heritage and enhancing the quality of life for our communities.

With the draft framework in hand, we have now moved on to the next stage: national dialogue.

After the summer recess, parliament will resume its debates on the proposals. But, before that, a four-week public consultation has been initiated, giving citizens the opportunity to have their say.

A dedicated working group will oversee this process. Chaired by my office, it will include Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg, Ministers Owen Bonnici, Clint Camilleri, Miriam Dalli and Jonathan Attard, supported by Principal Permanent Secretary Tony Sultana and Cabinet Secretary Ryan Spagnol. The Planning Authority’s CEO, Johann Buttigieg, will participate as an observer.

Together, we will review all submissions, meet stakeholders and ensure every perspective is considered.

No construction will commence while an appeal on a permit is pending- Mark Mallia

The consultation will also cover two draft legal notices that tackle past irregularities. Under these proposals, those responsible will have to pay fair compensation. This is not a blanket regularisation – each case will be assessed against strict criteria and taking into consideration whether the illegality harmed third parties.

I invite you to read through the documents and follow the government’s official channels of communication to consider the reasoning behind the main tenets of the reform. Citizens can submit their views until Sunday, September 7, at konsultazzjoni.gov.mt.

Our stance is firm: no construction will commence while an appeal on a permit is pending. Fines for abuses will be higher than ever. Past breaches will be addressed, with costs borne by the offenders. The penalties collected will directly fund environmental restoration and public projects – tangible improvements for communities.

This is a key point: the consequences of wrongdoing will be turned into benefits for society.

This reform is about building trust.

Planning should not be a source of frustration or injustice; it should be a framework that protects residents, rewards responsible development and safeguards our shared environment.

We are determined to close the chapter on years of lax enforcement and unclear rules, replacing them with a system that is fair, consistent and transparent.

Malta now has a chance to set a new standard – one where good planning is celebrated, bad practice is penalised and citizens know that their voice truly matters. This is not simply a legislative exercise; it is an opportunity to shape the way our towns, villages and landscapes will look for generations to come. And we intend to get it right.

Col. Mark Mallia is Head of Secretariat to the Prime Minister.