The Planning Authority has sealed off a large villa outside the development zone in Żebbuġ, which for years was used by Mark Gaffarena as a residence, although no permits have ever been issued for the structure or its use.

An enforcement notice on the site, which includes a large swimming pool and sizeable grounds, was first issued in 2008 on the basis of an extension to an existing room, the construction of additional structures, excavations and a large boundary wall encircling the property. All the works were carried out without permits.

A Planning Authority spokesman said an updated enforcement notice had been issued last November, covering also the change of use of the site to recreational and residential purposes and the installation of large metal cages to keep animals.

An enforcement notice was issued in November for the change of use and the installation of large cages to keep animals

Daily fines were imposed in view of the additional illegal developments, and enforcement officers intervened earlier this year to seal off the building, ensuring it was not used illegally as a residence. This newspaper tried to elicit a comment yesterday and spoke to a relative, but Mr Gaffarena never returned the call.

In 2008, he applied to build stables and facilities on the site, then indicated as a farm. An outline permit had been approved for the stables a year earlier but the full application was turned down on the basis of the continuing illegalities on site.

The PA said the illegalities had to be removed or indicated for sanctioning before the application could be considered. The proposal was, furthermore, deemed to lack the clearance of the agriculture, veterinary and resources authorities. Mr Gaffarena appealed the refusal, and the appeal is scheduled to be heard in December.

He is currently at the centre of several controversies, including over the expropriation of a palazzo in Old Mint Street, Valletta. The Sunday Times of Malta reported last year that Mr Gaffarena acquired a half undivided share of the Valletta property at a pittance, only to sell it to the government at a price of over €1.7 million.

The expropriation deal was investigated by the National Audit Office, which found there had been “collusion” between the Land Department, Mr Gaffarena and former planning parliamentary secretary Michael Falzon, who eventually resigned.