Two planning applications have been filed regarding Le Meridien hotel in St Julian’s, among other things proposing the construction of two additional floors above the hotel, and the development of a multi-storey car park.

The first application includes the extension of two upper floors above the existing, to house additional hotel suites and a guest lounge area. The application also reads: “general refurbishment on all levels.”

According to the Urban Design study, “The re-branding of Le Meridien Hotel and Spa to Malta Marriott Hotel and Spa will include the refurbishment of the common areas, circulation spaces, as well as the existing rooms. Furthermore, the current application includes the demolition of pool at roof level, extension of two floors and addition of signs to existing hotel.”

“As recommended by the ‘Accommodation Development – Policy for the consideration of applications for hotel heights limitation’ document published by the MTA, the resultant design for this five-star hotel will “constitute a landmark having unique aesthetic characteristics within the urban context.”

Photo above shows an impression of the proposed additional two floors on top of the existing hotel (photo top)

“Supporting this extension is the proposal covered by another current application - which proposes a multi-storey car park, hotel ancillary facilities and overlying temporary garden and pool. This development will replace the existing external car park on Triq Alfred Gauci, opposite the main entrance to the hotel.”

The multi-storey car park, according to ERA documents, will hold 330 spaces. The car park will see six levels constructed (mostly below ground, with the top most level being made up of greenery and a pool. According to the designs, the third level will see the pool and greenery. The building will include conference halls and a gymnasium.