Malta: Time to Rethink ‘Build Now, Sanction Later’?

Picture this: a towering crane looms over the quiet streets of Msida, its shadow dancing on the ancient walls of St. Paul’s Cathedral. This is not an uncommon sight in Malta today. The construction industry is booming, with new developments springing up faster than you can say ‘permits’. But is this rapid growth coming at a cost?

Momentum, a local NGO advocating for sustainable development, thinks so. They’re calling for an end to the ‘build now, sanction later’ culture that’s become all too common in Malta. But what does this mean, and why should you care?

The ‘build now, sanction later’ approach refers to the practice of constructing projects first and seeking necessary permits and approvals afterwards. While this might speed up construction, it can lead to a host of problems.

For one, it can result in developments that don’t comply with planning regulations or environmental standards. This could mean buildings that are too tall, too close to each other, or in environmentally sensitive areas. It can also lead to costly retrofitting or even demolition, as seen in the case of the controversial ‘Tower of Babel’ in Sliema.

this approach can strain relationships between developers and local councils. When developers build first and ask questions later, it can lead to tensions and delays in the approval process. This is not ideal for anyone involved.

Momentum is calling for a shift towards a more sustainable and responsible approach to development. They’re advocating for a system where permits are secured before construction begins. This would ensure that developments comply with planning regulations and environmental standards from the get-go.

But how feasible is this? Some argue that it could slow down construction, potentially harming the economy. However, Momentum counters that it’s not about slowing down, but about doing things right the first time.

They point to countries like Denmark and Germany, where strict planning regulations haven’t hindered their construction industries. In fact, these countries are leaders in sustainable development, with high-quality, well-planned urban environments.

So, what can you, as a concerned citizen, do? Momentum is encouraging everyone to get involved. You can sign their petition, attend their events, or simply spread the word. Every voice counts in shaping Malta’s future.

Remember, this is about more than just permits and regulations. It’s about creating a Malta that we’re proud to call home – a place that’s not just built fast, but built well and built to last.

As Maltese architect Richard England puts it, “We need to stop thinking about development as a race against time, and start thinking about it as a journey towards a sustainable future.”