Recent census data on the state of property in Malta, clearly shows the strength of the local construction industry, as well as the lack of sustainable planning, Moviment Graffitti said. The report confirms this by making clear that in the last past seven years, property development increased by 47,821 units, while the number of vacant properties increased by 17,000. As a result, according to the last census, the number of vacant properties stood at 53,000.

"Such a state of affairs strongly confirms the irrational stance as regards the extension of the development zone." the movement said, appealing to the authorities to formulate a national plan for the better use of property in Malta. Such a plan should give due consideration to a number of relevant issues, including better use of land, re-use of vacant property, the protection of the natural environment, as well as due attention to the issue of affordable housing.

The movement urged the government to revoke any permits that have been sanctioned recently in a number of areas through the extension of the development zone and instead put forward a national action plan through the consultation and collaboration of environmental organisations, the Malta Environment and Planning Authority and other entities in the property and housing sectors.