High-rise projects should be put on hold until a masterplan is put in place, a group of 13 organisations said this morning. 

"Before deciding on the specific proposals for high-rise development which are being proposed around Malta, the government should commission a holistic masterplan which assesses the cumulative impacts of such development in matters such as the generation of traffic, duration of construction, shading of other properties, infrastructure, air pollution, wind effect, impact on skyline of world heritage sites, and its impact on the economic value of property and people's quality of life."

Addressing a press conference, Ruben Borg, a senior University of Malta lecturer, said tall buildings were not necessarily a no-go, but several studies needed to be carried out to ensure these were done sensibly.

Let’s not go down a road where in a few years’ time, we’re kicking ourselves for not having done this right

“We are not against development, but this should be sustainable. Let’s not go down a road where in a few years’ time, we’re kicking ourselves for not having done this right,” Dr Borg said.

The collective is calling for several different impact assessments to be conducted, which would look into their cumulative effect these projects would have on the Sliema area. Among the issues were traffic impact, sewage, and the large shadows such buildings would cast over their surrounding neighbourhoods.

The organisations called for a temporary cessation of high-rise projects before a national masterplan on such development is carried out. Environmental NGOs have also invited all other interested organisations as well as political parties to support their appeal to the government.

The statement was signed by Alternattiva Demokratika, Partit Demokratiku, the Sliema local council, Civil Society Network, Din l-Art Helwa, Flimken ghall-Ambjent Ahjar, Friends of the Earth Malta, Ramblers Association Malta, Qui-si-sana and Tigne' Residents Association, Sustainable Built Environment Malta, Youths for the Environment, Moviment Graffitti and the Chamber of Planners.

A number of towers are being planned around Malta, especially around the Sliema, St Julian's area. 

The proposed towers around the Sliema/ St Julian's area.