The area of Ħondoq ir-Rummien, including the disused quarry which has left a scar in the picturesque landscape of Qala, is being proposed to be safeguarded from development and allocated for afforestation, the Planning Authority said Monday.

The Planning Authority has published for public consultation new revised planning policies for the Ħondoq ir-Rummien area, which policies will prohibit any form of development. The area of Ħondoq ir-Rummien, which is one of the Maltese island’s most scenic and pristine areas, boasting unparalleled views of Comino and the Fliegu Channel, has been under constant ‘threat’ of being developed.

As far back as 2002, an application had been submitted for the construction of a destination port and 195-room hotel, 200-yacht marina and a tourist village for 300 apartments. Proposals for an afforestation project in the area should incorporate features that will help to attract wildlife as well as the re-creation of the entire habitat.

Monocultures shall not be acceptable. Where possible the afforestation projects shall include routes to channel the flow of pedestrian visitors through the area. The area will not be made accessible to vehicular traffic. The proposed policy also excludes any additional beach facilities, new commercial facilities or the intensification of any existing commercial uses. Proposals for the upgrading of the existing quay and slipway shall be considered provided that interventions shall be mainly limited to the remediation of disrepair.

The Planning Authority is also seeking the rehabilitation of the coastal area on the Eastern end. The swimming zone is being reserved exclusively for bathing and no other activities will be permitted. No form of permanent and/or temporary berthing facilities for leisure or recreation will be permitted in the marine area near the swimming zone and the shoreline.

The proposed policy review of the Gozo and Comino Local Plan for the area together with the submissions received for Phase 1 may be viewed on the Authority’s website www.pa.org.mt/consultation. The PA invites individuals and organizations to send their submissions related to these amendments through email address: [email protected]