Two sites, one known as L-Ghadira s-Safra, limits of Naxxar and part of a larger area  known as Ta' l-Gheriexem and il-Marg, limits of Rabat are being recommended by the Planning Authority to be declared as 'Public Domain'.

"L-Ghadira s-Safra is a unique transitional coastal wetland situated between Qalet Marku and Ghallis limits of Naxxar. The site was Scheduled as a Level 1 Area of Ecological Importance and Level 1 Site of Scientific Importance in 1995 and later designated as a Natura 2000 site in view of the rare protected flora and fauna supported by this habitat," the Planning Authority said.

The area included within the larger proposed site at Ta' L-Gheriexem and il-Marg, which is being recommended for consideration as public domain incorporates the Domus Romana and Saracen Cemetry, located just outside Mdina. In addition to their archaeological value, the site forms part of the Mdina Area of High Landscape Value.

These two locations have been shortlisted from the sites proposed between 2017 and 2019 following a review in accordance to the provisions of the Civil Code. "The list of proposed sites included Wied Ghomor and Wied il-Kbir in San Gwann;  The Plague Cemetery in Bormla;  the inland and coastal area from Bahar ic-Caghaq to Pembroke, Ta' l-Gheriexem and il-Marg, limits of Rabat; l-Ghadira s-Safra and a site in Bulebel."

Sites and properties may only be proposed by the minister responsible for lands, Members of Parliament or NGOs. The declaration of sites as public domain rests with Parliament.

"The public and all stakeholders are being invited to view the Public Domain consultation documents from on the Authority's website www.pa.org.mt/consultation. Submissions and comments may be sent directly to the Authority through email address: [email protected] or postal address: Planning Director (Public Domain), Planning Authority, St. Francis Ravelin, Floriana FRN1230."

Proposals for new sites will not be considered through this public consultation exercise. The closing date for submissions is Monday 30^th March 2020.