An application for the construction of a four-storey block with a communal swimming pool in an outside development zone (ODZ) area has been dropped, after the move caused outrage among residents and environmental groups alike.

The development of the site in Żebbuġ, Gozo, overlooking Għasri Valley, was first proposed in November last year.

Opposing the development, heritage organisation Din l-Art Ħelwa insisted that the development would be an eyesore, as two of the four storeys proposed would be constructed in the ridge face of the cliff.

Read: 60 objections against plans for 4-storey block of flats in Zebbug

The application, submitted by architect Edwin Mintoff on behalf of Jimmy Stellini, was withdrawn yesterday.

Mr Stellini had argued that only the pool and jacuzzi area would be within the ODZ area. He had also proposed to leave part of the ODZ land for a “soft-landscaped recreational area”.

But the DLĦ continued to insist that the development would have an adverse ecological impact. Residents in the area had also lambasted the proposal.

Meanwhile an application requesting an extension to the Phoenicia Hotel in Floriana was approved yesterday.  The extension in Triq l-Assedju l-Kbir was approved under the condition that the external envelope of the building was removed to uncover historical elements in the area. Internal walls of the Phoenicia hotel are also to be removed to allow for minor alterations within the hotel.

Another ODZ application, this time requesting the installation of a second canopy at the Azure Window Restaurant in Dwejra, was also rejected yesterday.