Malta’s ‘Build Now, Sanction Later’ Culture: Time for Change?

Imagine this: a towering crane looms over Strait Street, its shadow stretching across the historic heart of Valletta. It’s a familiar sight in Malta, where construction sites are as common as the sun. But what if this scene, repeated across our islands, is more than just progress? What if it’s a symptom of a deeper issue, a culture of ‘build now, sanction later’ that’s stirring controversy and sparking calls for change?

The ‘Build Now, Sanction Later’ Phenomenon

Malta’s construction boom has been relentless. From high-rise apartments in Msida to luxury villas in Madliena, our islands are transforming at a pace that’s left some breathless. But while the cranes keep spinning, so do the controversies. Projects are often approved first, with planning permissions and environmental impact assessments (EIAs) following later, if at all. This ‘build now, sanction later’ approach has become so common that it’s now a topic of heated debate.

Take the recent controversy over the ‘City Gate’ project in Valletta. The €65 million development, which includes a new parliament building and a massive car park, was given the green light despite protests from architects and heritage enthusiasts. The EIA was only submitted after construction had begun, raising eyebrows and hackles.

The Legal scene and Loopholes

Malta’s Planning Act allows for projects to start before all permits are in place, provided developers have a ‘certificate of exemption’. This certificate, issued by the Planning Authority, allows work to commence while the final permit is being processed. But critics argue that this loophole is often exploited, with projects rushing ahead before all necessary approvals are in place.

the Planning Authority has been accused of being too lenient with developers. A recent report by the Office of the Ombudsman revealed that the Planning Authority had granted exemptions in 95% of cases between 2016 and 2019. This, coupled with the Authority’s backlog of cases, has led to concerns that projects are being approved without proper scrutiny.

Voices Calling for Change

Momentum is growing among environmental groups, architects, and concerned citizens calling for an end to the ‘build now, sanction later’ culture. They argue that this approach is leading to poor urban planning, environmental degradation, and a loss of Malta’s unique character.

Architect and heritage advocate Alex Torpiano puts it bluntly: “We’re losing our heritage and our identity at an alarming rate. We need to stop and think about what we’re doing before we start building.”

Environmental group Friends of the Earth Malta has been at the forefront of the campaign. They argue that the current system favors developers over the environment and the public interest. They’re calling for a halt to all construction until proper planning and environmental assessments are in place.

: Can Malta Change Course?

Malta’s construction industry is a significant economic driver, employing thousands and contributing billions to the economy. But can it continue to grow while also respecting the environment and preserving Malta’s unique character?

Some are hopeful that change is possible. The new Planning Authority, appointed in 2020, has promised a more rigorous approach to planning. Meanwhile, the government has committed to reviewing the Planning Act, with a public consultation currently underway.

But others warn that change won’t come easily. “The construction industry has a lot of influence,” says one political insider. “It won’t give up without a fight.”

As Malta continues to grow and develop, one thing is clear: the ‘build now, sanction later’ culture is a ticking time bomb. It’s time for Malta to pause, to think, and to plan for a future that respects our past and protects our environment. Because once our heritage is lost, it’s gone forever.