There is a possibility of Sannat residents being asked to vote in a referendum about the Ta’ Cenc development following the public hearing on the proposed development on Monday 22 February, Sannat Mayor Philip Vella said in comments to The Malta Independent.

The current development proposal is one which includes building 15 villas on the plateau near Mgarr ix-Xini at Ta’ Cenc in Gozo, as well as an interpretation centre and other structures outside the development zone.

There were four particular opinions which came out of the public hearing: those vehemently against; those in favour; those who have no interest; and some who seem to agree with parts of the proposal, but not all. As such, said the mayor, since the proposal is all or nothing, the fourth opinion needs to be discussed also to see whether it is viable or not.

Din l-Art Helwa, along with other NGOs, has spoken out against the development calling it ‘completely unacceptable’ and Mr Vella assured TMI that NGOs’ positions have been noted and will be discussed also while the Sannat local council attempts to come to a decision.

Mr Vella explained that the local council itself still has to meet and discuss the outcomes before having an official opinion, but only after consultation with experts to further explain the proposal with all its addenda and intricacies. This may or may not also include a meeting with MEPA officials on the case.

It is expected that the Sannat local council will know how to further tackle the issue by the end of next week.