A historic 17th century chapel in Mosta would be “dwarfed” by proposed development, Din l-Art Ħelwa warned.

The proposed project, just four metres from the chapel dedicated to St Andrew, has attracted a number of objections. The development includes the demolition of a building in Tal-Qares Street and the construction of a basement level garage and duplex penthouse with pool.

Flimkien għal Ambient Aħjar has warned the development would have a “detrimental impact” on cultural heritage. The project, it added, would have a direct impact on the “historical monument” and the streetscape.

Part of our cultural heritage will be lost

The Church has also formally objected to the development, with the Archdiocese’s administrative secretary, Michael Pace Ross, saying that if proposed excavation works were to go ahead, the chapel could sustain permanent damage.

“Part of our cultural heritage will be lost,” he warned, noting that the parvis was also at risk.

The Superintendent of Cultural Heritage noted that, though the building was located in a development zone, the proposed project would visually create “volume” near the historic chapel.

Furthermore, there were “well-known and documented archaeological remains” in the area, the Superintendent noted, adding that the presence of more archaeological remains could not be excluded.

The chapel was situated only a kilometre away from Ta’ Bistra catacombs and other heritage sites, a resident objecting to the project pointed out. Raymond Grosso said the development should not be approved, pointing out that the chapel was still in pristine conditions and several functions were held there. The treasures inside the chapel were being restored through funds raised from among parishioners and local firms, he said.

Processing of the application has been suspended at the architect’s request.