From Mr V. Galea

Everybody assumes that the spectacular landscape value of the valley and the bay at Ramla are a fundamental point of reference for tourism in Gozo. Such a natural asset is an attraction to all those visiting the island and therefore benefits all other existing tourist businesses in Gozo. I feel that it is then obligatory to prevent the threat of opportunistic development in this area, which would also damage the Gozo tourist product as a whole.

In view of the decision taken recently by the Mepa Planning Appeals Board, I question whether the Appeals Board would have been so considerate with a common citizen. The developers’ appeal to Mepa should have been declared null and void, the same way it would have been if any common citizen failed to follow procedures accordingly.

On the other hand, I would like to propose specific sustainable and ecological projects for Ramla l-Hamra Bay instead of villas and private swimming pools:

1. Mepa should truly safeguard the environments around Ramla l-Hamra by including the whole area in the EU funded and protected programme of Natura 2000.

2. Heritage trusts and NGOs should be supported to obtain EU funds to transform the whole Ramla area into an international heritage site.

3. Re-establish its archaeological remains.

4. Highlighting its geomorphologic features and habitat that supports endemic flora and fauna while ecological walks and expeditions could take place under professional guidance.

5. Promote Ramla for Blue Flag bay status.

6. Ensure that Ramla l-Hamra remains free from light pollution, a characteristic sought avidly by our visitors.

7. Its spectacular landscape value should not only be protected but promoted as an ideal location for astronomical observation, and

8. The State should claim back the land from the Ulysses Lodge proprietors and remove the abandoned building, restore the partially concreted-over Roman pathway to its former state and holistically restore the whole area.

I would like to invite whoever is responsible for the Eco-Ghawdex project to gather ideas from the general public and take any of the proposals listed above on board. I do not mind the Green Party not taking any credit if there is the will to truly implement this project for the benefit of present and future generations.

Victor Galea

AD Spokesman for Gozo

GHARB