The Planning Commission said it has approved a revised design for the re-development of a modernist architectural terraced house away from the urban conservation area of Balzan.

Although not a scheduled building, the property’s façade has a degree of architectural value, the Planning Authority said in a statement.

In line with recommendations made by the Superintendent of Cultural Heritage (SCH), the newly approved permission will ensure that the façade of ‘Walmartville’, which is a distinctive 1960s building will be retained.

The additional two floors that will be added to the double-fronted townhouse will retain the same design features including apertures and railings as the original façade. A receded penthouse will also be included. Earlier last year, development permission was granted for the property to be entirely demolished and replaced by a new building.

The SCH had appealed this decision. Following discussions between the PA, SCH and the applicant it was agreed that although a permit had been granted, new plans were to be submitted for reassessment by the Development Management Directorate taking into consideration the architectural value of the townhouse.