Plans to replace a traditional farmhouse situated along Dingli cliffs with a villa and a pool have been submitted to the Planning Authority.

The planning application proposes “minor excavation works, demolition of existing residence approved by PA7647/03 and PA1798/14 and redevelopment of residence with pool in line with RDGP” at Triq Panoramika in Dingli.

The site is next door to what residents call it-Turretta – a room which was used as a base by the Armed Forces of Malta and which serves as a meteorological monitoring site.

However, the site itself does not contain a “residence”, as suggested by the planning application – although a residence on the site has already been approved on the site – but it merely contains a dilapidated small room which was used for farming purposes.

In fact, the area was previously used by the traditional farmer Joseph Muscat, known as il-Bezuza, who reared sheep and goats there.  Muscat has since retired, and in fact the application includes the demolition of small caves where he used to keep the animals he reared.

The planning application proposes the demolition of the farmhouse which currently exists, and excavation to go a level down to create a basement level which will contain a couple of stores and a games room and lounge.

The area of the ground floor meanwhile is calculated at 138 square metres, while a 75 square metre patio is also envisioned outside of the villa which eventually leads to an 8-metre-long swimming pool.

The plans also proposed the construction of a first floor which will have a total area of 58 square metres and be reserved for a master bedroom and ensuite.

The Planning Authority’s case officer is yet to file its recommendation on whether the project should be granted or not, and in fact because the application was only filed at the end of last April, consultations from entities such as the ERA are yet to be submitted.