Standing at the bustling Triq San Gwann in Birkirkara, you can’t help but notice the towering cranes and the hum of activity. Malta’s construction boom is in full swing, but it’s not just the noise and dust that’s got people talking. It’s the ‘build now, sanction later’ culture that’s been the talk of the town, and now, Momentum is calling for a change.

Malta’s rapid development has been a double-edged sword. On one hand, it’s driving economic growth and providing much-needed housing. On the other, it’s leading to a planning crisis. Projects often start before permits are secured, leading to a backlog of applications and a lack of oversight. This has resulted in everything from illegal structures to environmental degradation.

“It’s like trying to paint a masterpiece without knowing where your canvas ends,” says Dr. Marthese Portelli, an urban planner and Momentum member. “We need a clear plan before we start building, not after.”

Momentum, a local NGO focused on sustainable development, is leading the charge against this culture. They’ve launched a campaign, ‘Plan Before You Build’, calling for stricter enforcement of planning laws and better public participation in planning decisions.

“We’re not against development,” says Claire Bonello, Momentum’s coordinator. “We’re against development that’s haphazard and doesn’t consider the long-term impact on our communities and our environment.”

Malta isn’t short on examples of successful planning. The Valletta 2018 project, which saw the capital undergo a massive regeneration, is a testament to what careful planning can achieve. Similarly, the Marsaxlokk Harbour project, which balanced development with the needs of local fishermen, shows that progress doesn’t have to come at the expense of tradition.

“We can learn from these successes,” says Dr. Portelli. “We need to plan for the future, not just react to the present.”

The Planning Authority has promised reforms, including stricter enforcement and more public engagement. But Momentum and other activists argue that more needs to be done. They’re calling for tougher penalties for illegal construction and a more transparent planning process.

“We’re not asking for perfection,” says Bonello. “We’re asking for a process that’s fair, transparent, and accountable. That’s not too much to ask for in a country that’s building its future.”

As Malta continues to grow, the ‘build now, sanction later’ culture is a problem that can’t be ignored. With Momentum leading the charge, the call for change is growing louder. The question is, will Malta’s planners listen?