ERA 'abdicating all responsibility' to protect Marsascala - ADPD

ADPD have accused the Environment and Resources Authority of “abdicating all responsibility” to protect Marsascala bay where a new ferry terminal is planned.

In a statement on Saturday, the Green Party criticised the ERA for waiving an Environmental Impact Assessment for the area earmarked for the new ferry service, arguing it was “clearly evident” that the ERA is “abdicating all responsibility to protect the bay from development that may be detrimental to this protected habitat”.

Party official Brian Decelis, who is also an electoral candidate for the Third District which includes Marsascala, said the ERA report is “quite limited” as it does not take into consideration the impact that this project will have on the surrounding residential zone.

“This does not take into consideration estimated passenger numbers and the traffic increase that this zone will inevitably face, which will surely be problematic,” Decelis said.

He added the lack of an EIA means the public will have “little opportunity” to be consulted after a detailed technical analysis, including alternative proposals as well as the cumulative effects on the area.

ADPD pointed out that ERA has “ignored” the fact that the area where the project is scheduled for is used by swimmers.

“If the project is given the green light, swimming in the area will no longer be possible or, at most, severely restricted,” Decelis said.

ADPD insisted there “should always be full consultation” with resident after all necessary studies have been concluded.

“As no studies have been carried out, there will be no consultation.”