Luqa council reiterates objection to mosque proposal as PA recommends refusal
Mayor urges government and residents to oppose development
Luqa local council has unanimously agreed that the development of a mosque on the edge of town “should not go ahead” as the Planning Authority case officer recommended the application should be turned down.
During a council meeting on Wednesday, mayor John Schembri called on the prime minister, cabinet and opposition MPs to take a stand against this project.
The council argued the space earmarked for the mosque at Ħal Farruġ industrial estate (PA00063/22) could be used for a project that would serve the local community better, such as for a trade school which is “sorely needed”.
In 2022 Luqa local council had strongly objected to the proposed construction of a place of worship for the Islamic community with ancillary facilities. The project includes the demolition of two huts on a largely vacant plot.
The site spans a total of 2,152 square metres, with the bulk of the development constructed over two floors. The highest point of the proposed minaret would reach 15 metres.
Objections to the development included possible hindrance to the emergency access to the airport and potential problems to air traffic “in terms of height, glare, and difficulties for instrumentation”.
The local council argued the site is “too near the national runway and may cause danger to descending aircraft”, a concern echoed by the Home Affairs Ministry.
Other objectors noted the proposed external design was “not in conformity with the surrounding areas”.
They also pointed out that the proposed use of the site “is not compatible with an area zoned for industrial development” arguing that the site “should be used for the provision of off-street parking for residents of the surrounding areas”.
Last month, the Planning Authority case officer recommended the development should not be approved “since the applicant has not obtained the clearance from the Lands Authority”.
“The proposal would also result in the loss of industrial space required for future development,” the case officer reported.
During their meeting the Luqa council “felt it had to take a clear position on this development for the good of the Ħal Luqa and Ħal Farruġ communities”, adding that there is already a mosque in the south of Malta.
The council urged residents to take a stand against the development. “We urge you to get involved and defend what is in the best interest for our community.”