Civil action group Azzjoni: Tuna Artna Lura (Action: Give us Back our Land) has asked interested parties to sign a petition against proposals made by the American University of Malta, for its campus at Dock 1 in Cospicua.

 "The civil action group was formed when it transpired that, contrary to the popular belief of residents, and even media reports stating otherwise, none of the Cottonera local councils have objected to the development," a statement by the group read.

"Cospicua and Senglea local councils did send formal letters to the PA, objecting only to the depletion of public parking places which would result from the development.  Only Senglea councillor Malcolm Gatt put in an objection as an individual, flagging up concerns also about loss of open and community space, as well as heritage considerations. Other objectors voicing these multiple concerns were: 'Forum Kumunita Bormliża', 'Għaqda Dilettanti Sajjieda Barklori Isla', 'Flimkien Għal Ambient Aħjar', 'Din L-Art Ħelwa', 'Futur Ambjent Wieħed' and several individuals."

The group highlighted that PL MP Glenn Bedingfield recently raised some of these concerns publically.

"Despite several cited planning policy violations, the project is being recommended for approval by the case officer," the group said.

"The PA application involves the construction of an administrative building between the British and the Knights Building. This building would be in place of the current open community space, recently upgraded with EU funding on the Dock 1 waterfront. The AUM would also take over the Knights Building, adding two floors to it and extending it with a new wing. This increase in height will block the view of the Senglea fortifications from Dock 1. The view will be further blocked by the new wing extension, which will also take up further open, communal space on the Dock 1 waterfront "

"The application for the building of a dormitory and car park, on an open plot with heritage remains, on St. Paul's Street is also part of the 'campus masterplan'. However this part of the AUM extension application's decision has for now been postponed," the group said.