PN Adviser’s Irony: Ġgantija Heights Project He Once Slammed, Now He Advises On
PN Adviser’s Irony: Ġgantija Heights Project He Once Slammed, Now He Advises On
Imagine standing at the foot of Ġgantija Temples, the Neolithic marvels that have stood sentinel over Gozo for over 5,500 years. Now, picture a towering, modern residential complex looming above them. This is the Ġgantija Heights project, a contentious development that’s been making waves in local politics and architecture circles.
From Critic to Adviser: A Political U-Turn
In 2019, the Nationalist Party (PN) was up in arms about Ġgantija Heights. Their spokesperson, Dr. David Agius, called the project “scandalous” and a “monstrous” addition to Gozo’s skyline. Fast forward to today, and Dr. Agius finds himself in a surprising role – that of an adviser to the very same project he once lambasted.
Documents obtained by Hot Malta reveal that Dr. Agius, now a PN adviser, has been providing legal advice to the project’s developers, Gozitan businessman Charles Azzopardi and his company, Horizon Investments. The irony is not lost on many, including PN’s own supporters.
Ġgantija Heights: A Contentious Development
Ġgantija Heights is a proposed 12-story residential complex that would cast a long shadow over the Ġgantija Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The project has been a lightning rod for controversy, with critics arguing that it goes against Malta’s own planning policies and could harm the island’s cultural heritage.
Supporters, however, point to the need for housing in Gozo and argue that the project, with its planned rooftop pool and gym, would be a boon for the local economy. The project’s website even boasts that it will “set new standards in luxury living in Gozo.”
In the midst of this debate, Dr. Agius’ role change has raised eyebrows. When asked about the apparent contradiction, Dr. Agius told Hot Malta, “Circumstances change, and so do perspectives. My role now is to ensure the project adheres to all legal requirements.”
: Planning Permit Hangs in the Balance
The Ġgantija Heights project is currently awaiting a planning permit from the Planning Authority. With Dr. Agius now advising the project, all eyes are on the PN to see if they will maintain their critical stance or align with their adviser’s new position.
For now, the future of Ġgantija Heights hangs in the balance, much like the Ġgantija Temples themselves, which have weathered the storms of time to stand tall and proud. if this modern addition to Gozo’s skyline will meet a similar fate.
