I refer to the letter from Vivian Bianchi who, as the developer of this project, reacted to my letter about what was happening at the Bishop’s Palace in St Ursula Street, Valletta.

I very much regret the tone of his letter and in particular his comments about my health. This matter has nothing to do with “humour” or with what is “detrimental to his good health” nor anything to do with “fixation” with a subject.

I will not be intimidated by this type of writing, threats, punctures, hard looks, reports to the Prime Minister (by a local politician) or any other form of intimidation. I have always been a defender of our heritage and I will remain so.

I have nothing personal against the Bianchi family or any developer whatsoever. I will, however, continue to say what I believe and what I consider to be the truth. I will also continue to speak about what I think is wrong in this country.

I have stated that I do not normally like to discuss individual projects but I feel so strongly about this case because of the way it has been handled and because of the importance of the building that I cannot shut up, as others would wish me to. The fact that the house is opposite mine is only relevant in that I know the facts well and so, yes, it does interest me personally.

I have repeatedly heard the argument by developers, again repeated by Mr. Bianchi, that they are “saving” heritage and should therefore be allowed to make changes as they deem fit. This argument does not impress me at all, because it is understandable that anyone who invests money expects a return and certainly does not do it for the love of the country.

As to complaining in the past over what has happened to this building, I assure you, Mr Bianchi, that I have always done my job well, irrespective of to whom a building belongs, even when it has meant reporting members of my own family.

Of course, I am now no longer the Curator of Valletta – to the delight of developers and local and national politicians, who have clinked their champagne glasses now that they have finally got me out of the way. They think!

I cannot agree with you, Mr Bianchi, that you restoring the Bishop’s Palace. You have completely altered the house, the interior of which is already unrecognisable. You have, in fact, not responded to any of my remarks regarding what is wrong with your project. Call it what you like, but please do not call it restoration.

It is a pity that while Mepa comes down hard on the little guy doing something wrong, it decides to close its eyes in respect of a building that they themselves have decided (but have not yet officially) to schedule as Grade A.

I do not have access to the interior but my information is not, as stated, second-hand. It is enough to see what has been done by workers who have been chiselling away the patina of the façade, even removing some important particular features such as the large number “55” on the central sculptured area.

To Mr Bianchi, this is restoration. “Cleaning” the façade by brushing it and chiselling it is not restoration.

Ray Bondin

VALLETTA