An architects' firm is proposing a motorsport racetrack in the Ħal Far Industrial Estate which does not overspill onto ODZ land.
Periti Studio has unveiled a polished version, in consultation with the Malta Motorsport Federation, of the proposal that they first published in November.
The track, which is in line with international motorsport framework and requirements, is being proposed for the Ħal Far site as it is the only location that could potentially incorporate the track without causing an overspill onto ODZ land.
According to architect Nicholas Mallia, the proposal is a fully-fledged Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile approved race track of two kilometres or 3.1 kilometres, which is suitable for motorcars and motorbikes.
The facility includes an independent go-carting race track and a road safety facility for motorists’ skills training.
He said that good planning required a detailed study of the residual capacity of the industrial estate and discussions with the Malta Industrial Parks.
“We hope to be given the opportunity to discuss the proposal with stakeholders and authorities because we are confident that this is the only viable site for a racetrack in Malta.”
Mr Mallia called on motorsport enthusiasts to stand together and “help drive the message that a race track in Malta deserves serious consideration”.
The Malta Motorsport Federation has meanwhile taken to social media to share the firm’s proposal.
In February, the federation expressed its concern over the lack of progress in the government plans of constructing a motor-racing track.
For months, the government had reiterated its plans to build a track, but so far the plans remained shelved, much to the frustration of the MMF and motorsport enthusiasts.
The federation had said that despite presenting a feasible proposal for the development of a Road Safety and Motorsport Facility, it did not receive feedback from the authorities.
In 2016, the government had said it received five expressions of interest for the design, construction and operation of a Motor Recreation and Education Park.
The government's racetrack proposal had sparked controversy, especially since it had not been excluded that such a circuit would be built in an ODZ.