The Planning Authority has approved embellishment works on the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta.

Parts of the proposal, such as the restoration of the Perellos Chapel had already been approved by the PA. Today's decision will create a viewing platform and glass railing on the MCC roof, while will also see the installation of a couple of panoramic lifts to take people from the roof to the Long Ward.

Advice from the International Council on Monuments and Sites (Icomos) was requested, and they were asked to deliver a verdict on the idea of installing a viewing platform and lifts in the historic Long Ward. The international heritage experts gave a favourable assessment.

The proposal had been criticised by the Valletta local council, as well as Din L-Art Helwa, who argued that such works will damage the fabric of the building, and create possibilities for future catering facilities.

The project description, as appears on the Planning Authority's website, reads: "Proposed interventions and alterations to parts of the Mediterranean Conference Centre as described below: Project A: Proposed Lifts to Access Roof of the Mediterranean Conference Centre; Project D: Proposed Restoration on the Fabric of the Perellos Chapel  at the Mediterranean Conference Centre; Project H: Proposed Alterations to Tank Room to include Emergency Exit and Re-levelling of Flooring at the Mediterranean Conference Centre."

During todays sitting, Din L-Art Helwa as well as Flimkien Ghall-Ambjent Ahjar expressed concern that the plan will cause a negative impact on the roof typology.

The project architect however, said that the interventions would be reversible, and would be a benefit to the site which would allow for the use of augmented reality.

The €10 million that will be spent on the works, which will party be financed through EU funds, will also open areas which were previously closed off to the public, the architect said.