PA to decide on Manoel Island padel courts on Thursday
Graffiti presses the point that works were carried out illegally
Graffiti has appeared on boundary walls on Manoel Island, pressing the point that works on padel courts on the site are illegal.
The action was taken a day before the Planning Authority is set to decide on an application to sanction the works and approve a total of 30 courts.
Lobby Group Graffitti said works had started on the courts illegally on public land and on archaeological remains.
The Planning Board will be deciding on whether to sanction 20 illegally built padel courts and allow the construction of an additional ten on the site of the former Nicholl soccer pitch.
The board hearing was originally scheduled for election week but was deferred at the eleventh hour because the architect of the application could not attend the hearing.
The PA's case officer is recommending approval, subject to conditions and a €900 sanctioning fine.
"What happened to the Government's promise that Manoel Island will be returned to the people?" Graffitti asked.
The development application was submitted by Gżira United FC , whose president, businessman Sharlon Pace, has admitted a personal business interest in the local padel industry.
The site where works have started on padel courts on Manoel Island.