The Nationalist Party (PN) has welcomed the Government’s announcement of a reform to Malta’s planning appeals system, while arguing that the proposal addresses only part of a wider issue and that the country still requires a comprehensive overhaul of the entire planning framework.
In a statement, the Opposition said it has long maintained that appeals against planning permits should have “a real effect” and that irreversible construction works should not be allowed to proceed while the legality of a permit is still being challenged. However, it noted that the Government had already opened a similar reform for public consultation in 2023, before leaving the existing system unchanged for almost three more years.
The PN also criticised the timing of the latest consultation, saying it has again been launched during the summer months after years of delays. While welcoming the announced changes, the Opposition stressed that they “cannot in any way be presented as the comprehensive reform that our country needs.”
The party said it will closely examine the proposed Bill once it is published and presented in Parliament. It is seeking clarification on what the Government means by a “relevant appeal”, whether every appeal will automatically suspend development works, who will have the right to appeal, how pending cases will be handled, and what additional resources will be provided to the Tribunal and the Courts.
The PN also welcomed the proposal for the Courts to retain the power to revoke planning permits and the withdrawal of a proposal to fine appeals considered frivolous. It reiterated that any reform should provide citizens with an effective legal remedy while ensuring greater certainty and transparency throughout Malta’s planning system, which it said has a direct impact on the quality of life of Maltese and Gozitan communities.
The statement was signed by Rebekah Borg, Shadow Minister for Planning.
