Mistra controversy: Full permit has not been granted - Mepa

The Malta Environment and Planning Authority (Mepa) said in a statement this evening that a full development permit for an outdoor entertainment facility in Mista has not been granted.

The granting of that permit is subject to approval of an application by the Malta Tourism Authority for embellishment of Mistra Bay and, Mepa said, its Planning Directorate is recommending a refusal.

Mepa said the first outline development application for the entertainment facility was validated on October 25, 2005. While that was being processed, a separate application was submitted by the MTA for embellishment of Mistra Bay.

The Development Control Commission on November 12, 2007 approved the outline development permit for the entertainment facility, but for this to go ahead it would require a full development permit.

One of the conditions for the granting of a full permit is the approval of the MTA application.

"The MTA's application has not been approved and the Mepa Planning Directorate is recommending a refusal" Mepa said. No date has been set yet for a public hearing.