The government has officially concluded the public consultation process on its proposed reform of Malta's planning appeals system, marking what it described as the first step towards introducing new legislation aimed at making the appeals process fairer, more transparent and more effective.
In a statement, the Ministry for Infrastructure, Planning and Employment said it had received submissions and feedback from citizens, professional bodies, stakeholders, organisations and other interested parties during the consultation period. The contributions will now be reviewed before the final version of the reform is prepared.
Infrastructure, Planning and Employment Minister Jonathan Attard said the consultation formed an essential part of the legislative process, stressing the importance of gathering views before moving to the next stage.
"Now that the public consultation has closed, I would like to thank everyone who participated constructively. This is an issue that directly affects our communities, people's quality of life and confidence in the planning system. It was therefore important to listen to all opinions and proposals before proceeding to the next phase," Attard said.
The proposed reform is centred on three main pillars: the automatic suspension of relevant planning permits once an appeal is filed, the introduction of clear deadlines to ensure appeals are decided within a reasonable timeframe, and greater digitalisation and administrative support to strengthen the Environment and Planning Review Tribunal.
According to the minister, the reform seeks to address a long-standing issue in Malta's planning system whereby, despite the legal right to appeal, development in some cases is completed before the appeals process is concluded.
Attard said the reform is intended to safeguard appellants' rights while maintaining legal certainty for permit holders.
The proposals also include enhanced electronic notification systems, improvements to digital registers, stronger coordination between the Planning Authority, the Tribunal and the courts, and dedicated administrative assistance for the Tribunal to help cases progress more efficiently.
The ministry said it will carry out a detailed assessment of the submissions received during the consultation and, where appropriate, incorporate the feedback into the final legislative package.
The government will then continue work to advance the reform through the parliamentary process, with the stated aim of creating a more effective, balanced and credible planning system.