The Għajnsielem Local Council has formally objected to plans for Noma Island to operate in waters near Comino and along the local coastline, arguing that the proposal is incompatible with the area's protected environmental status.

In a statement issued on Monday, the council said that Comino is designated as a Natura 2000 site and Special Area of Conservation, making it part of a highly sensitive ecological zone of both national and European importance.

"Any additional commercial activity within or around this protected zone risks causing irreparable damage to marine biodiversity," the council said.

The objection comes as Noma Island, a 1,750-square-metre floating recreational platform marketed as "Malta's fourth island", prepares to begin operations in Maltese waters. The motorised trimaran can host up to 350 guests and features two decks with a restaurant, bar-lounge and freshwater swimming pool.

The council outlined four main concerns: the potential environmental impact on the Natura 2000 site, the contradiction with national efforts to curb over-commercialisation around Comino, the risk of increased marine litter, and noise pollution caused by music and large gatherings at sea.

Noma Island holds a Transport Malta vessel operator licence allowing it to operate in authorised areas depending on weather conditions. However, it is restricted to static charters while at anchor and is not permitted to carry passengers while underway.

Meanwhile, the Environment and Resources Authority said no environmental permit application has been submitted. It noted that such a permit would only be required if the vessel operates within a protected area or hosts more than 50 people.

The platform, formerly known as Canua Island, has already faced environmental opposition abroad. It spent two years in France amid a major dispute, with authorities initially refusing permits in 2023 over marine concerns. Although a court later ordered that permits be issued, 21 local mayors continued to oppose the project before it was eventually sold and rebranded.

The Għajnsielem Local Council urged the authorities not to issue any further permits - or to revoke any already granted - and to prioritise "the long-term protection, sustainability, and ecological integrity of Comino."