Three Gozo-focused environmental and heritage NGOs have formed a coalition and pledged to work together to protect and preserve the Gozitan built and natural heritage.

They are; Din L-Art Ħelwa Għawdex, Għawdix and Wirt Għawdex.

The three organisations represent diverse segments of Gozitan society and long-term, committed, Maltese and foreign residents of Gozo.

In a joint statement the NGOs said that, whilst they will continue to operate as independent NGOs, they will “speak out in one united voice to fight the many outrageous developments negatively impacting the Gozitan built environment, coast and countryside, reflecting the alarm and despair felt by most Gozo residents.”

“Koalizzjoni Għal Għawdex believes that, if we act now, we are still in time to save the unique characteristics of the island of Gozo for future generations.”

The coalition will initially be focused on two elements. Firstly, lobbying the Government and the Planning Authority to close the existing loopholes in planning laws allowing unfettered inappropriate construction to destroy Gozo’s landscape. Secondly, pressing the Government and planners to draw up a new long-term vision for Gozo, protecting its key resources, inherent beauty and tranquility, that have drawn many people to its shores for decades.

“Xlendi and Ħondoq ir-Rummien are not St. George’s Bay and Buġibba. San Lawrenz, Qala and Xagħra are not Sliema, Msida and Gżira. The present ‘one-size-fits-all’ planning policies are not fit for purpose and need to be reviewed after proper consultation with communities, local councils, NGOs and the Gozo - based business bodies.”

Għawdix, Wirt Għawdex and Din L-Art Ħelwa Għawdex, under the banner of Koalizzjoni għal Għawdex, declared that the situation in Gozo is at intolerable levels, and immediate action is necessary.

The coalition said it will work with the Government, mobilise public debate and opinion, and pursue every legal and constitutional avenue possible in defence of Gozo and its environment to ensure that public entities and officials do their duty.

“The situation is at a tipping point, and there is no room for complacency, procrastination or political maneuvering. The situation is desperate, and sanity must be restored to planning policies and their underpinning political decisions to avoid further disasters for the island of Gozo,” it said.