Picture this: A bustling street in Birkirkara, a town known for its vibrant markets and narrow streets. Amidst the chatter and clatter, a new building suddenly appears, its scaffolding and cranes blocking the sun. Locals scratch their heads, wondering, “Who approved this?” The answer, often, is no one – at least, not yet.

Welcome to Malta’s ‘build now, sanction later’ culture, where construction starts before permits are secured, and developers often face minimal consequences. But a growing momentum is calling for an end to this chaotic approach, arguing that it’s time for stricter enforcement and better planning.

Malta’s construction boom has led to a surge in unregulated building. According to the Planning Authority, in 2020 alone, they received over 10,000 applications for permits. But with limited resources, many projects slip through the net, starting before they’re legally allowed.

“We’re seeing a lot of illegal construction, especially in rural areas,” says Dr. Marthese Portelli, an environmental lawyer. “People are building without permits, changing the use of their properties, even demolishing protected buildings. The Planning Authority is overwhelmed.”

Frustrated with the lack of enforcement, several NGOs and political parties have joined forces to demand change. The ‘No to Unregulated Construction’ campaign, launched earlier this year, is calling for stricter penalties and better resourcing for the Planning Authority.

“We’re not against development,” says campaign coordinator, Dr. Joseph Caruana. “But it must be regulated, sustainable, and respect our environment and heritage. The ‘build now, sanction later’ culture is destroying Malta’s character.”

Momentum is growing for stricter enforcement. The Opposition has proposed increasing fines for illegal construction to €50,000, and even imprisonment for repeat offenders. Meanwhile, the government is considering stricter penalties and better resourcing for the Planning Authority.

“We need to send a strong message that unregulated construction won’t be tolerated,” says Minister for the Environment, Aaron Farrugia. “We’re looking at tougher penalties and better enforcement, but we also need to engage with the public to change attitudes.”

Back in Birkirkara, the new building continues to rise, its future uncertain. But the debate around Malta’s planning woes is far from over. As momentum builds for change, one thing is clear: Malta’s ‘build now, sanction later’ culture is on borrowed time.