The Planning Authority on Thursday approved an “upgrade” of the existing Kwart ta’ Mil drag racing strip in Ħal Far, but asked for a report on how light and noise pollution in the area could be mitigated. 

Only NGO representative Romano Cassar voted against because no limit was imposed on the number of events which can be organised on the track. The 10 other board members voted in favour.

The decision was taken before the PA considers another application for the construction of a new racetrack on adjacent industrial land earmarked for this purpose by the government.

In a statement, the government said that the infrastructural work includes the repositioning of the tower for the track to be lengthened, more security facilities and a bigger spectator stand, which will accommodate 3,000 people.

There will be a new control tower along with facilities for the media.