To reduce the backlog of cases and provide a fair and expeditious hearing for all Based on recently collected data, the Planning Authority announced Monday that it is increasing the Planning Commissions to four, with responsibilities being apportioned according to the number of cases in various sectors to ensure a fair and expeditious hearing for all.

According to Subsidiary Legislation 552.13 under Chapter 552 of the Laws of Malta, the Planning Authority is legally obliged to ensure that all development applications are processed and decided within 100 days. This legal period is essential to maintain transparency, good governance, and the credibility of the planning system.

However, the Authority is currently facing delays in the submission of cases to the existing Commissions, which now reach 50 days, and this means that the legal obligation of 100 days will not be met. In addition, the amount of pending cases exceeded 5,000, with over 8,000 new applications expected to be submitted this year.

This situation is unsustainable and therefore, it is necessary to increase the number of Planning Commissions to four in order to, according to the PA,

Significantly reduce the amount of pending cases and help absorb the increase in applications;

Ensure that all cases are brought before the Commission within 15 days, in line with operational expectations;

Maintain compliance with the SL 552.13 legislation, by protecting the Authority and Government from legal challenges or reputational damage;

Restore public and investor confidence in the planning system through timely and efficient decisions; and

Strengthen Malta's position as a reliable country for development and investment.