Mellieħa Residents Battle Govt Over Land Handed to Developer

Imagine walking down Triq il-Kullejja in Mellieħa, the sun dipping below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the quiet, tree-lined street. Now imagine that peaceful scene shattered by the sound of construction, as high-rise apartments spring up where once stood a tranquil public garden. This is the reality Mellieħa residents fear, as the government has handed over a prime site to a private developer.

The 1,500 square metre plot, located just off Triq il-Kullejja, was once a public garden, a green lung in the heart of Mellieħa. But in a decision that has left locals fuming, the government has given the site to Tan Xemx Investments, a company owned by prominent local businessman, Joe Gerada. The developer plans to build a mix of residential and commercial units, with some properties earmarked for affordable housing.

However, the proposed development has sparked outrage among Mellieħa residents. “This is not about affordable housing,” says Mario Portelli, a long-time Mellieħa resident. “This is about a developer making a quick profit at the expense of our community.”

Residents have formed a pressure group, ‘Mellieħa United’, to fight the development. They argue that the site should remain a public garden, accessible to all. They also question the need for more high-rise apartments in Mellieħa, citing concerns about overcrowding and increased traffic congestion.

“We’re not against development,” says Portelli. “But we want sustainable, responsible development that respects our environment and our community. This isn’t it.”

The group has launched an online petition, calling on the government to reverse its decision and take back the site. They’ve also organised protests and public meetings, drawing support from environmental groups and political parties.

Meanwhile, Tan Xemx Investments maintains that the development will bring much-needed affordable housing to Mellieħa. In a statement, the company said, “We are committed to delivering a high-quality project that respects the environment and benefits the local community.”

The government has defended its decision, arguing that the development will bring significant investment to Mellieħa and help tackle the island’s housing shortage. Environment Minister, Aaron Farrugia, has called on residents to engage in constructive dialogue with the developer.

However, with tensions running high, whether this dispute can be resolved through dialogue. As Mellieħa United prepares for another protest, one thing is clear: the future of this prime plot of land is far from decided.