The Dingli local council has unanimously voted to object against an application for the development of a tourist complex on the site of a fireworks factory in a Natura 2000 site.

The application would see the disused Pulvic fireworks factory turned into an ‘Eco-spa and resort.

The application was filed by Sunroute Hotels. The proposed development consitst of several low-lying bungalows and a pool.

The Environment and Resources had initially objected to the development but has since changed its recommendation to a favourable one. The Superintendence for Cultural Heritage is objecting to the development, arguing that the area should be rehabilitated. The case officer has recommended the project for approval.

But the Dingli council said it will be voting against the proposed development located “in the middle of a Natura 2000 scheduled site and in one of the most beautiful and scenic areas of the Maltese Islands.”

In a letter sent to the Planning Authority, the council said the development goes against planning policies, which say that buildings in rural areas can only be converted into tourism accommodation “only when the proposal involves the conversion of vacant, listed buildings requiring restoration and rehabilitation or existing vacant buildings of architectural or historic merit, with architectural features and/or a degree of antiquity which warrants their retention; or which comprise part of a traditional group of buildings whose form and design represent a feature worthy of retention.”

It also pointed out that the site forms part of a sensitive area that is protected as an Area of Ecological Importance, an Area of High Landscape Value and a Natura2000 site.

“The proposed development clearly violates the regulations for development within Natura 2000 sites and hence risks that the area loses such status,” it said.

The council also said the assessment submitted by ERA leaves much to be desired for a site with such a high ecological value.

The generic, two-page report makes no mention of the possible impact on flora and fauna, on natural water systems and on light emissions.

The proposal will be visually intrusive on the scenic beauty of the area and no improvement on the ugliness of the current building is being proposed, it added.

Furthermore, the proposal will commercialize an otherwise unspoilt area and will generate a significant amount of activity in an otherwise completely quiet and rural area.

The council reiterated that, once the explosives factory is no longer required, the area should be returned returned to nature and reinstated to its original state.

It directed its representative on the Planning Board to vote against the proposed development.