ADPD: ‘Reverse Course’ on Mellieħa Land Transfer, or Face Public Outcry

Imagine standing at the foot of the picturesque Mellieħa Bay, the sun dipping below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. Now, picture a sprawling development, towering over the tranquil scene. This is the reality the Alternattiva Demokratika (AD) Party is fighting to prevent, as they call on the government to reverse its decision to transfer public land in Mellieħa to a private developer.

Land for a Song: The Controversial Deal

The government’s plans involve transferring around 20,000 square meters of public land in Mellieħa to a private developer, for a mere €1.5 million. This, according to AD, is a sweetheart deal that undervalues the land and overlooks the environmental and cultural significance of the area. The land in question is part of the Tal-Mixta Estate, a green lung that has been earmarked for development despite being zoned as rural in the local plan.

“This is not just about money,” says Carmel Cacopardo, AD’s spokesperson on the environment. “It’s about preserving our heritage, our culture, and our quality of life. Mellieħa is one of the few places left in Malta that retains its rural charm. We can’t let that be destroyed for a quick buck.”

Public Outcry and Legal Challenges

The proposed transfer has sparked public outrage in Mellieħa. Residents have taken to social media, voicing their disapproval and signing petitions. AD, along with other environmental NGOs, has launched a legal challenge against the decision, arguing that it contravenes the Environment and Development Planning Acts.

“We’re not against development per se,” says Cacopardo. “But it must be sustainable, respect the environment, and serve the community. This deal does none of that. It’s a giveaway to a private developer, at the expense of the public.”

AD’s Proposal: A Better Way Forward

AD is calling on the government to scrap the current deal and instead explore alternative, sustainable development options. They propose turning the Tal-Mixta Estate into a public park, complete with walking trails, picnic areas, and educational facilities that celebrate Mellieħa’s unique biodiversity and cultural heritage.

“We can have development that respects and enhances our environment, not destroys it,” says Cacopardo. “The government needs to listen to the people of Mellieħa, and reverse this disastrous decision.”

As the sun sets over Mellieħa Bay, the question remains: will the government heed the call of AD and the people of Mellieħa, or will the tranquility of this rural gem be lost to yet another development deal?