The 2013 election which the incumbent government of Gonzi PN lost with such a thrashing defeat does not need further analysis. The outcome of the result was not a question of ‘if’ but of ‘when’ and by how many votes the Labour Party was to win the election.

With hindsight the writing was on the wall and the main three contributing factors towards the downfall of Gonzi PN were the insensitive issue of the utility bills, the frustration of hunters having their hunting pastime running through the generations gradually controlled and slightly receding out of their control and the approval of building permits.

Gonzi PN made efforts to control the flood of permit applications within reasonable means, but the greedy developers expressed dissatisfaction with those efforts. They wanted more. The Labour Party took over the government and building permits started being issued by the Planning Authority, like confetti. PA issued these permits without giving a second thought and consideration to the aesthetic, cultural heritage, and environment issues.

In 2021, eight years later, Gozo was already under siege. Development applications approved by the Planning Authority in Gozo from 2013 to 2021 hit a record high, confirming fears that Gozo is under a construction onslaught that’s in danger of destroying its unique rural character and tranquil environment.

Environment Minister Aaron Farrugia was responding to questions from PN opposition MP Chris Said and informed parliament in June 2021 that the Planning Authority had approved over 6,000 development applications in Gozo since 2013, with one in every six involving projects in areas designated as outside development zones.

No wonder Xlendi and Marsalforn summer resorts are now in this horrible and irreversible state.

Xlendi bay itself is vibrant, with clear, turquoise waters dotted with small boats and swimmers, suggesting that it is still a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The presence of cafes, restaurants, and other amenities along the waterfront adds to the area’s appeal as a social and recreational hub.

However, the rampant development also highlights severe challenges. The dense concentration of buildings along the waterfront might lead to concerns about overcrowding and the environmental impact on the natural landscape. The ongoing construction, evidenced by cranes and other machinery, suggests that development is still in progress, which could further impair the bay’s character. Still, PA has failed to consider it essential to balance this growth with sustainable practices to preserve the natural beauty and charm of the area.

Marsalforn was a small seaside resort known for its charm and beauty. The present atmosphere contrasts with the bay’s waterfront, with a clear view of modern apartment buildings, which are built close to the shoreline, offering stunning views of the blue sea. 

Boats still dot the clear waters of the bay, showcasing a lively maritime environment ideal for boating but less appealing for fishing activities. The foreground shows a well-maintained promenade with stone paving, planters with small trees, and a string of lights overhead, creating a pleasant and inviting atmosphere for pedestrians. But in the evening, frequent fights and uncontrolled disturbances shatter the tranquil atmosphere. 

PA permits have no limits, such as the approval of a 22-apartment block of flats and 20 basement garages near the world heritage site Ġgantija Temples, despite a request from UNESCO for a heritage impact assessment. The development will take place 157 metres from the temple, which UNESCO inscribed as a world heritage site in 1980, along with six other megalithic temples.

Several eNGOs and Heritage Malta appealed the PA’s decision and the Coalition of Gozo (formed by the Gozitan eNGOs Din l-Art Ħelwa Għawdex, Għawdix and Wirt Għawdex) took legal action against the PA to stop the permit. They were successful, for now, but the developer may attempt again to overturn this decision. 

This Coalition of Gozo has also raised strong objections to the PA’s decision to approve a six-unit ridge-edge development overlooking Il-Wied ta’ Marsalforn.

The controversial application (PA/07408/23) for the Ta’ Sruġ area has come under fire for allegedly breaching Policy P33 of the Development Control Design Policy. According to the coalition, this policy was conspicuously absent from the case officer’s report.

“It is shameful that NGOs have to continue assuming the role of authority officials, whose job it is to properly scrutinise development applications but seem intent on bypassing policies and proper screening,” the Coalition stated in their press release.

“During a 4th of June meeting of the Planning Commission, the NGOs voiced strong objections regarding the application in an Urban Conservation Area. However, these complaints did not faze Commission chairperson Martin Camilleri, who contended that although the proposed units do not ‘front a public road’, they ‘front a valley’. All three members of the Planning Commission voted in favour of the development,” the NGOs said.

But the Commission chairperson missed the wood from the trees. He blatantly ignored those individuals enjoying the stroll in the valley and now look up to be met with these dreadful developments. 

The encroachment of concrete buildings detracts from the valley’s traditional charm. The distinctive character of Xaghra and Zebbug, with their historic and cultural significance, seems overshadowed by the rapid urbanisation.

The aesthetic appeal of natural rock formations and traditional Gozitan architecture has given way to more uniform, modern constructions. This change can feel jarring to those who have long appreciated the valley’s natural beauty.

And what about Calypso Island and the welcoming sight to those fishermen approaching Gozo by their boat? The island presents a combination of natural beauty and human activity. The three prominent hills are key geographical features that not only serve as navigational aids but also contribute to Gozo’s nickname, “Three Hills Island.” This view from the sea encapsulates the island’s rugged charm and rich cultural tapestry, making the approach an experience filled with both practicality and beauty.

When Ulysses (Odysseus) approached the island of Gozo, particularly nearing Calypso’s Cave, he would have witnessed a scene of captivating beauty and mystique. The rugged cliffs of the island would loom dramatically above the turquoise sea, their sheer faces softened by the verdant foliage clinging to the rock. The sparkling waters, clear and inviting, would reflect the deep blue of the sky, creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere.

Birds, perhaps seagulls or other coastal species, would circle above, their calls adding to the sense of isolation and untouched nature. The distant sound of waves gently lapping against the rocky shore would provide a rhythmic, soothing backdrop, while the sun bathed the scene in warm, golden light, making the island appear almost magical.

Lord Tennyson said: “the old order changeth yielding place to new.” I have my serious doubts whether he was referring to this thoughtless development by the Planning Authority?