A planning application to construct thirteen two-storey houses in Maghtab is 'objectionable from an environmental point of view,' the Environment and Resources Authority has said.

The site location is described as "Disused Farm, Triq il-Kappella ta' Santa Marija, Maghtab, Naxxar," and is committed with buildings already on the site.

The application proposes the  demolition of existing dilapidated structures, excavation for communal reservoirs, pools and underground basements below the footprint of each dwelling, the construction of thirteen residential dwellings on two floors including basements, pools, communal refuse area, security post, and landscaping.

The application describes the site as being outside the development zone.

The ERA, in documents submitted regarding the application, said that while the site's context and the commitment on site have been noted, "the change of use from a disused farm into thirteen new residential units, including ancillary interventions is of concern from an environmental point of view. The proposed works would lead to intensification of built structures, further land takeup and sprawl of urban uses within an area ODZ. Urban-type developments should be restricted to areas designated for such use so as to minimise the proliferation of unjustified land use ODZ. The approval of this development may also lead for pressures to approve similar interventions elsewhere within the rural area. In view of the above, the proposal is objectionable from an environmental point of view."

The total site area is 7,700sqm.

According to the Partial Review of the Central Malta Local Plan the site is one where residential land use can be considered, subject to a number of restrictions.