Nigret decision is a betrayal of the Prime Minister’s promise to protect the area

Momentum condemns yesterday’s decision by the Planning Authority to approve the first major development in the Nigret area of Żurrieq, describing it as a betrayal of the commitments made by the Prime Minister to residents before the general election.

The Planning Authority has approved the first of five proposed developments for the area, paving the way for the urbanisation of one of the largest remaining stretches of open countryside in southern Malta.

Dr Alastair Farrugia, executive member of Momentum, said, “The people of Żurrieq were promised that Nigret would be protected. Yesterday, they were let down,”.

Hundreds of residents objected to this application and attended the Planning Authority meeting to defend their community and their countryside. Their concerns were ignored. Once again, ordinary citizens have seen that political promises made before an election can quickly disappear afterward.

Dr Farrugia said, “If the Government was sincere in its promise to protect Nigret, it still has the opportunity to act. It should immediately begin the process of acquiring the remaining land and permanently protecting the area from further development before the remaining applications are decided”.

Malta cannot continue sacrificing its remaining open spaces one permit at a time. Momentum stands with the residents of Żurrieq and all those who have fought to protect Nigret, and will continue calling for the area to receive the protection it deserves.

Similar cases are at the Planning Authority, waiting in queue; next is the Swatar Birkirkara-Msida Valley, which risks having the same fate.


Video of Robert Abela’s statement: https://www.facebook.com/reel/4470265283240435

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