Momentum expresses its disappointment at the Planning Authority’s decision to approve additional floors on the DB towers in Pembroke.

Despite nearly 400 objections and despite strong concerns about visual impact, shadowing on homes, and increased traffic, the Planning Authority still chose to give the green light to further intensification of this already controversial project. This raises the question of how a mega-development of this scale can be allowed to grow even further when the fundamental concerns raised years ago have never been resolved.

Arnold Cassola, Leader of Momentum, said: “This latest permit increases the towers to 25 and 23 storeys, raising the number of apartments from 179 to 231. The development will cast longer shadows over Pembroke residences during winter mornings and intensify pressures on the area’s already fragile infrastructure. What makes today’s decision even more unacceptable is the clear contradiction between DB Group’s public promises and its actions. Five years ago, DB had stated that it had “listened and acted” when it reduced the tower height. Today’s decision shows the opposite. The project is once again climbing higher, proving that the earlier gesture was nothing more than a temporary concession to ease public pressure.”

Momentum notes that it is regrettable that both the Government and the Opposition have remained silent on this latest intensification, choosing not to stand with the community and allowing a decision that goes against the will of the people. Momentum stands firmly with the Pembroke, St Julian’s and Swieqi communities, who have once again been ignored. Residents deserve transparency, respect, and a planning system that listens to people and not one that accommodates speculative expansions every time a permit is issued.

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