Opposition Leader Simon Busuttil believes that the direction Malta is taking in terms of development will transform the island into another Dubai – this is a direction which he vociferously opposes.

His comments come in light of the Planning Authority’s decision to approve five high-rise towers: four in Mriehel and one in Sliema, known as the Town Square project.

In a marathon session, the Planning Authority (PA) Board approved the Mriehel project by 11 votes in favour, and two against. It also approved the controversial Town Square project with seven votes in favour and six against. The Town Square project has been met with heavy criticism in view of the absence of Environmental and Resource Authority (ERA) Chairman Professor Victor Axiaq. It later transpired that his personal observations on the Town Square project were passed on to another Board Member to be read out during the PA Board hearing, however did this not take place.

Dr Busuttil stressed the fact that Professor Axiaq’s views on the matter were negative, expressing great concern on a number of issues related to the high-rise project. His comments come in the form of a phone-interview on Radio 101.

“The decision of the PA is a decision based on the government’s policy. We do not agree with turning Malta into Dubai. People are calling this the ‘Dubaisation’ of Malta. It is clear that the government views money as a top priority.

“I remind the public that a few days ago the PA gave its approval to five towers – belonging to the same clique. The case of the Sliema tower resulted in seven board members voting in favour and six voting against. PN spokesperson for planning Ryan Callus was among the six who voted against, as well as the Chairperson and the Deputy Chairperson of the PA Board – they all had serious concerns. Those members who voted in favour have done so with the blessing of Prime Minister Muscat.

“We must not forget the Chairman of the Environmental and Resources Authority was not present, and we have now found out that his thoughts on the project were negative to say the least. Had he been present, there would not have been approval for the project. We urge the ERA to appeal the decision, in view of the major concerns and lack of impact assessments.

“This decision shows that when Dr Muscat split up MEPA into the Planning Authority and the Environmental and Resources Authority, there were grave consequences. Environmental priorities have been relegated, and it now has a weaker voice than it did before. The direction Malta is taking is one that the Opposition does not agree with.

“Should we allow Malta to go through irreversible changes or should we keep the elements that make Malta what it is?”