The Government has formally requested the Planning Authority to initiate a partial review of the 1995 Marsaxlokk Bay Local Plan relating to the site of the former San Lucjan Oil Depot in Birżebbuġa, together with the preparation of a new Development Brief to guide the future regeneration of the area, the PA said Wednesday.

With the former oil depot now fully decommissioned, this location presents a significant opportunity for regeneration. An updated planning framework is being proposed, aimed at guiding the site's transformation into a space that reflects contemporary needs, community aspirations, and long-term sustainability.

Given that the existing planning policy did not establish a detailed framework for the alternative use of the site once the oil depot ceased operations, the proposed review aims to develop a new spatial planning framework to guide the long-term regeneration of the area. The initiative is also in line with Government's strategic objectives to strengthen Malta's blue and green economy, while creating new opportunities for sustainable development and additional public open spaces.

The proposed objectives for the review are designed to establish a forward-looking and balanced vision for the area, focusing on:

1. Promoting Education, Innovation, and Technology Developing opportunities for learning and encouraging the integration of innovative technologies within the community.

2. Supporting Cultural, Leisure, and Entertainment Activities Enhancing quality of life by enabling a broad range of cultural, recreational, and entertainment activities.

3. Transforming Hard Surfaces into Vibrant Green Areas Converting existing hard surfaces into green, dynamic spaces wherever feasible, improving environmental quality and public enjoyment.

4. Advancing Sustainable Initiatives and Investments Prioritising practices and developments that support environmental sustainability and community well-being.

These objectives are intended to work together to create a comprehensive development strategy that respects the area's character while enabling new opportunities for public use, innovation, and sustainable economic activity.

In addition, the Development Brief will aim to ensure a balanced mix of uses for the site. The Planning Authority encourages all interested parties to review the proposals and submit their feedback during the consultation window. More details about the consultation may be viewed on www.pa.org.mt/consultation Submissions are to be made through the official online form available at publicconsultation.gov.mt.

Any clarifications are to be sent by email to: [email protected] Submissions must be sent to the Authority not later than 24 April .