Independent MP Marlene Farrugia has tabled a motion in Parliament calling for a moratorium on major projects and tall buildings until finalisation of a masterplan which would ensure that public and private land could continue to be enjoyed in a sustainable manner.
In her motion, Dr Farrugia referred to plans for tall buildings in various parts of Malta and said that rather than a piecmeal Malta needed a masterplan for such projects, considering the country's economic, social and environmental needs.
The motion backs a call by the Chamber of Architects for the appointment of an independent Design Review Panel to work with developers and designers to ensure that any developments complement surrounding areas, make proper use of space and are catered for by the infrastructural services.
It also calls for an updating of the laws on issues such as ownership, maintenance and eventual demolition.
The motion therefore calls for a moratorium for a 'reasonable time' until the masterplan and related legal changes are completed.
The call comes a day after it was revealed that a 34-storey tower is planned for the site of Mercury House - the former Maltacom centre in Paceville. Tall buildings are also being proposed for Qui Si-Sana and Mrieħel.