'Disastrous for the environment': PN condemns controversial planning reforms
The Opposition also slammed the lack of consultation
The Nationalist Party has condemned two government bills proposing a major overhaul of the Planning Authority, saying they fail to strengthen environmental protections and were tabled without adequate public consultation.
In a joint statement, PN MPs Stanley Zammit and Rebekah Borg warned the proposed reforms could have “disastrous consequences for our environment and the quality of life of all citizens."
The bills tabled in Parliament Friday propose giving more discretionary powers to the PA, halting construction projects for 10 months while under appeal and removing court authority to revoke a permit.
The Opposition called on the government to stop the bills, which would remove the "last remaining legal safeguards protecting citizens", from going forward and instead launch an open consultation process.
“It [the proposals] would grant unchecked powers to the Planning Authority and the Environment and Planning Review Tribunal (EPRT) while restricting the public’s right to appeal planning decisions", the PN said.
"Even worse, it would remove the courts' ability to revoke planning permits."
The PN noted that the bills were presented in parliament without any prior public consultation and urged the government to act more transparently.
It questioned the timing of the bills, which were introduced in the middle of summer, as parliament is rushing to conclude its agenda.
“This is a clear sign of the government’s lack of direction and serious planning. It has once again chosen to bypass the democratic process and act in secrecy, when what is needed is an open and transparent approach,” the PN said.
The party added that it would be putting forward its own proposals to ensure a fair and transparent planning system.
NGO Moviment Graffiti criticised the bills, saying that they would dismantle "nearly all remaining legal safeguards”.
ADPD deputy chairperson Carmel Cacopardo said that the bill takes Malta back to the "Lorry Sant years", while activist Wayne Flask said they “aim to facilitate money laundering in property”.