PA defers decision on proposal to turn historic Qormi palazzo into hotel

The Planning Commission on Thursday postponed a decision to turn an 18th-century palazzo in the heart of Qormi into a boutique hotel.

It has given developers until the end of the month to make changes to their proposals that are not in breach of policy.

The application, PA/00472/25 by Pecunia European Properties Ltd, proposes the demolition of derelict structures and the construction of an extension to the existing Knights-era property on Triq il-Kbira, as well as changing the use of the property from a private residence to boutique tourism accommodation.

Part of the development, which is located in Qormi’s urban conservation area, would see guest rooms constructed in the palazzo’s sprawling gardens.

The proposal to convert the palazzo known as tat-Tabib Maempel has received objections from the Qormi local council, activists and residents, among others.

On Thursday, the commission deferred a decision on the development application.

Chair Elizabeth Ellul noted that despite there being no objections by the Environment and Resources Authority and the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage, the commission determined that the proposed development was too extensive in scale and scope, and would be detrimental to the core of the Qormi community. 

The commission also noted that, while the site was covered by an outline permit establishing the principle of development, the application under consideration related to reserved matters. It therefore acknowledged that the principle of boutique accommodation within the palazzo was acceptable.

However, it found that the scale and design of the proposed development, which were not approved at outline stage, were excessive and not in line with applicable policies.

The commission found that the proposal:

• Extends beyond the 30-metre development limit established under Policy P27
• Infringes Policy G21, particularly regarding the protection of the site’s context and setting 
• Introduces a level of development that is not compatible with the sensitivity of the site 

The commission therefore indicated that the proposal may only be considered further if it is substantially revised. In particular, it emphasised that: 

• Boutique accommodation is to be confined strictly to the rehabilitation of the existing palazzo
• All additional proposed development, including the North, West and East wings, as well as all pools, is to be removed
• Fresh and accurate drawings are to be submitted reflecting the reduced scope 

It highlighted the importance of the existing garden, which is to be retained in full. Any revised submission must: 

• Clearly include and accurately represent the existing garden
• Provide an assessment of its existing condition and features
• Ensure its complete protection and integration within the scheme 

Particular emphasis was also placed on safeguarding the existing medieval wall. To this end, the commission indicated that a bank guarantee of €30,000 would be required to ensure the protection of this heritage feature.

It deferred its decision to July 30 pending the submission of revised plans that adequately addressed its concerns and brought the proposal in line with applicable planning policies.