The Planning Authority has defended its decision to approve the development of a five-floor guesthouse in Wied Ghomor after it expressed its reservations with the project a couple of weeks ago, saying that it was “satisfied with the revised plans”.

A statement said that “the approved guesthouse will be built on a parcel of land which is not only disturbed but also enclosed between two existing developments.  The site also fronts a number of apartment blocks at the lower end of the valley area. The new approved development will not take up any virgin land.”

The new guesthouse will retain a similar building height and depth as the residential villa which was approved two years ago.”

Last month, the PA rejected an application for the development of retirement home with 100 housing units, restaurant, a chapel, and other amenities, in the valley.  

Local Councillors, eNGOs, and residents have all expressed concerns in the past regarding the over-development taking place in the area.