NGO Moviment Graffitti has condemned the proposal for the construction of 71 apartments over four storeys, 74 garages on two basement levels, and a communal pool over farmland in Nadur, Gozo. 

The development in Triq il-Qortin, is part of the 2006 rationalisation exercise, partly falls outside the development zone. 

It was first brought to light by The Malta Independent last month. 

“The proposed development is significantly out-of-proportion with the other buildings in the area and jars considerably with the surroundings. If given the green light by the authorities, such a huge building would no doubt lead to the overnight transformation of this quiet countryside road”, Moviment Graffitti said in a statement. 

“It is clear that this development threatens to further destroy the rural character of what was once an idyllic Gozitan village, resulting in a negative impact on the life of residents. To add further insult to injury, it will also destroy arable land that is still worked by local farmers, who will see their livelihoods destroyed and their land replaced by another ghastly, uninspiring block of apartments”, it added. 

They warned that such a “monstrosity” in a quaint village like Nadur will be a “huge eyesore” not just in terms of its size but also because its design jars with its surroundings. 

“The apartment complex would result in a sudden influx of people and a substantial increase in noise pollution, traffic and demand for parking spaces in a narrow street where parking is already a problem”, they said. 

They also noted that the development will restrict access to the Natura 2000 site at il-Qortin, which is at the end of the street, and also increase the existing sewage problem because the street is not connection to a sewer system.  This would mean that there will be a large increase of sewage going into the water table, which will be highly detrimental to the remaining arable land. 

Moviment Graffitti urged the Planning Authority to reject this development “which will not only contribute significantly to the continued uglification of Gozo, but will also have a very negative impact on the quality of life of the families who live in this tranquil locality and who will have to bear the brunt of yet another huge development in the middle of a rural area.”

They said that residents have come up in arms against this proposed development and are urging the public to support them in their fight. 

“Gozitan and Maltese citizens alike have had enough of seeing more agricultural land brutalized at the hands of unscrupulous land speculators and gobbled-up by tarmac and hideous blocks of apartments which give nothing back to the community.” 

Moviment Graffitti said that it strongly supports these residents and invited other residents to follow their example and join the fight against the assault on Gozo.