Flimkien ghal Ambjent Ahjar yesterday expressed “extreme concern” about the fate of Ta’ Hagrat Temples at Mgarr, Malta. It said application PA 1272/00 was submitted seven years ago for the demolition of an existing garage and construction of a terraced house with an underlying garage close to the temples. Due to the high archaeological sensitivity of the area, the development application was refused by the Development Control Commission.

The application was resubmitted and again refused permission, however at reconsideration stage, this was subsequently turned into a “grant permission” verdict on condition that the applicant obtained a bank guarantee in the eventuality that the archaeological site is damaged during demolition and construction.

FAA wondered how serious the planning process really is, since no bank guarantees can safeguard the temples from the damaging effect that demolition, heavy machinery and the actual construction will have on the temples. Nor can bank guarantees ever bring back the temples or any other built cultural heritage once lost. The site is barely five metres from the boundary wall surrounding the temples.

The ripple effect of bad planning, inconsistent application of regulations and complete disrespect for heritage will be felt when the final decision is taken on PA 00306/06 which is another outline development application submitted to Mepa on 16 January 2006, for the construction of basement garages, flats and penthouses. The site is also located at the far end of St Peter Street, Mgarr, and exactly in front of the previous application PA 1272/00 and which will also reach as far as the entrance to Ta’ Hagrat Temples.

“What’s more,” FAA said, “this site lies almost entirely in an ODZ (Outside Development Zone). The case officer has again recommended a refusal; however the fate of the temples now hangs in the balance as the case officer reconsiders the case and DCC Board B gives the final verdict.”