Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Employment Jonathan Attard visited the Planning Authority’s offices in Marsa, where he met with Executive Chairman Johann Buttigieg, Planning Board Chairman Emanuel Camilleri, the Authority’s directors, and other employees.
During the meeting, they discussed the Authority’s ongoing work, its priorities, as well as the plans and initiatives that will continue to strengthen the efficiency and quality of the services it provides to the public.
Over the past five years, the Planning Authority has invested approximately €3 million in its digital transformation. This investment included the acquisition of advanced technological equipment, such as specialised computers and equipment for collecting aerial and ground data, as well as investment in human resources through recruitment, apprenticeship schemes, specialised training, and consultancy services.
Minister Attard also had the opportunity to see first-hand how the Planning Authority is integrating artificial intelligence (AI) systems into various aspects of its operations. It was explained how these technologies are helping to streamline internal processes, improve information analysis, and further enhance the efficiency of service delivery.
Through investment in technology and the modernisation of the Authority’s operations, the Authority is delivering tangible results. The number of pending development application cases decreased from 6,474 at the beginning of January 2025 to 3,972 by the end of the year, representing a 39% reduction. This result reflects the Authority’s commitment to continuing to improve operational efficiency and reduce processing times through ongoing investment in technology, digitalisation, and innovation.
Minister Jonathan Attard said, “The Authority’s employees played a key role in enabling the Authority to further improve the efficiency of application processing over the past year while also addressing the backlog of pending applications. These results are the outcome of the dedication of our employees and continued investment in technology and digital systems.”
Minister Attard added that the government will continue implementing the necessary reforms in the planning sector while maintaining investment in technology, digitalisation and human resources. “Our goal is to continue strengthening the Authority’s efficiency and to provide increasingly modern, transparent, and citizen- and business-focused services,” Minister Attard concluded.
In the coming weeks, the Authority will also launch a new digital portal and interactive mapping systems that will make more information available in an accessible and user-friendly way. This investment will position the Planning Authority among the most technologically advanced authorities, while helping the public, professionals, and investors make better-informed and more sustainable decisions for the future.
Planning Authority Executive Chairman Johann Buttigieg stated, “Our work extends far beyond application processing and enforcement. It includes a wide range of initiatives aimed at continuing to modernise our services. We are making substantial investments in digital transformation, including the implementation of new artificial intelligence-based systems. These will further improve the efficiency of our processes and provide more advanced tools for both our employees and the public.”
The meeting also covered the Authority’s future plans, with a focus on continuing its digital transformation process, increasing investment in innovative technological solutions, and implementing initiatives that will further strengthen operational efficiency and enhance the quality of services provided to citizens and businesses.