ADPD: ‘Reverse Course on Mellieħa Land Transfer, or Face Our Wrath’

Imagine standing on Mellieħa’s picturesque Il-Qawra Point, the sun dipping below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange and red. Now, imagine that view marred by a towering block of concrete. This is the scenario that the Alternattiva Demokratika (ADPD) party is warning about, as they call on the government to reverse its decision to transfer a chunk of Mellieħa’s prime land to a private developer.

Land Transfer: A Brief Background

The government’s plan, approved in June, involves transferring around 16,000 square meters of public land in Mellieħa to a private developer. The land, located near the Mellieħa Local Council, is earmarked for a mixed-use development, including residential units and retail space. However, the ADPD argues that this decision goes against the government’s promises to protect Malta’s natural beauty and promote sustainable development.

ADPD’s Stance: A ‘Disastrous’ Decision

ADPD’s spokesperson on the environment, Carmel Cacopardo, has been vocal in his criticism of the land transfer. “This decision is a disaster for Mellieħa and for Malta,” he says. “It’s a clear example of the government’s double standards when it comes to protecting our environment and promoting sustainable development.”

Cacopardo argues that the land in question is not only environmentally sensitive but also crucial for Mellieħa’s future growth. “This land could be used to create much-needed open spaces, parks, or even affordable housing. Instead, it’s being given away to a private developer to build yet more luxury apartments.”

Public Outcry and Next Steps

ADPD’s call to reverse the land transfer has been met with widespread support from Mellieħa residents and environmental groups. A petition launched by ADPD has already gathered thousands of signatures, and a protest is planned for later this month.

Meanwhile, the party has called on the government to halt the transfer process immediately and engage in meaningful dialogue with the public and environmental experts. “This land belongs to all Maltese people,” says Cacopardo. “We won’t stand by and watch as it’s sold off to the highest bidder.”

if the government will heed ADPD’s call. But one thing is clear: the battle for Mellieħa’s prime land is far from over.