The Planning Authority has approved Malta's first crematorium in Siġġiewi by a 7-2 vote, despite fierce opposition from local residents, the local council, former minister John Dalli, and former Nationalist MP Karol Aquilina. Proposed by funeral undertaker Mario Tonna, the project will be constructed on outside development zone (ODZ) agricultural land beside the historic Ta' Brija cemetery.

The facility will cover approximately 11,615 square metres and feature a crematorium, chapel, mortuary, and capacity for 2,480 urns. Although standalone crematoria face strict regulations under 2024 policies, the case officer classified the project as an extension to the existing cemetery - a designation that proved highly contentious since the burial ground has not been used for decades.

Objectors raised multiple concerns during the hearing. Former minister John Dalli questioned whether the facility would be commercially viable without importing corpses from abroad and warned about potential impacts on health and property values. Former MP Karol Aquilina argued that an industrial-type facility was completely incompatible with Siġġiewi's rural surroundings, a valley close to vineyards, residential properties, and the Prime Minister's official residence.

Architect Peter Falzon, representing the Siġġiewi local council, criticised the absence of a traffic study, highlighted discrepancies regarding the site's agricultural value, and questioned the handling of a late emissions report alongside a non-response from the Environment and Resources Authority. Residents also voiced alarms over potential mercury and nitrogen oxide emissions, prevailing winds blowing pollutants toward the town, flood risks in the valley, and increased commercial traffic on narrow rural roads.

Defending the project, architect Colin Zammit argued that cremation provides a vital, modern alternative to traditional burial, particularly for Malta's growing foreign population who currently face high costs arranging cremations overseas. He maintained that the €1 million Zeus 1000 cremation system would eliminate odours and significantly reduce emissions, with landscaping designed to minimise visual disruption.

While the Planning Board approved the physical development, board members and officials emphasised that the decision does not permit the crematorium to begin operating. The facility must still secure separate environmental and operational authorisations from other regulatory bodies.