Flimkien għal Ambjent Aħjar (FAA) said Tuesday it is supporting residents of Triq il-Bjar, Valletta, in objecting to Planning Application PA 05280/25, which seeks to sanction the change of use of a pre-1967 garage into an "artisan joinery" workshop. The site is located in a narrow residential alley, approximately two metres wide, directly beneath occupied dwellings.
The proposed workshop involves carpentry activities, including the use of heavy machinery, spray guns, varnishes and chemical products. Fumes from these processes are released into a common shaft serving the residences above. Families with young children and elderly residents have reported certified respiratory and other serious health conditions linked to prolonged exposure to noise, dust and toxic airborne substances. Numerous complaints have been filed with the Police Corps, the Environmental Health Directorate and the Occupational Health and Safety Authority, leading to enforcement action and criminal proceedings that are still pending. Despite this, the activity has continued.
The Planning Authority's own Case Officer Report strongly recommended refusal. Internal photographs, which have been denied public access, reportedly show that the activity is industrial in nature and incompatible with an "artisan joiner" designation. While certain low-impact crafts may be acceptable in Residential Areas, joinery is explicitly listed as an unacceptable use under applicable policies.
The proposal breaches Policies GD01 and GS07 of the Grand Harbour Local Plan, which aim to prevent industrial development in Residential Areas and require refusal where residential amenity is adversely affected. It also conflicts with SPED Urban Objective 3, which seeks to protect the character and amenity of urban areas. Policies SMHO 02 and NHHO01 further state that small industry is only acceptable where no heavy machinery, noisy equipment or chemical by-products are involved, criteria that joinery clearly fails to meet.
Despite the clear recommendation for refusal, during the 25 November sitting the Planning Authority Chairman, Elizabeth Ellul, defended the applicant and dismissed the Directorate's objections. The activity was portrayed as small-scale craft production, with claims that it had operated for many years, despite official confirmation that no pre-1994 or 2016 trading licences exist.
Serious concern is also raised over the conduct of statutory consultees. The Environmental Health Directorate and the Environment and Resources Authority both approved the application, with no apparent consideration of verified health impacts or the residential context. The Valletta Local Council has likewise failed to respond meaningfully.
FAA and residents warn that vulnerable individuals remain exposed to harmful dust and fumes, and describe the situation as a grave failure of environmental justice. They appeal to the Prime Minister, relevant ministers and regulatory authorities to intervene, release all documentation to the public, and ensure that comprehensive health, environmental and amenity assessments are carried out before any decision is taken.