Momentum has criticised the Planning Authority’s approval of the first major development in the Nigret area of Żurrieq, describing the decision as a betrayal of commitments made by Prime Minister Robert Abela before the last general election to protect the area.
In a statement, the party said the Planning Authority’s decision paves the way for the first of five proposed developments in Nigret, which it described as one of the largest remaining stretches of open countryside in southern Malta. Momentum argued that the approval marks the beginning of the area’s urbanisation despite strong opposition from local residents.
Momentum executive member Dr Alastair Farrugia said, “The people of Żurrieq were promised that Nigret would be protected. Yesterday, they were let down.” He noted that hundreds of residents had objected to the application and attended the Planning Authority meeting to defend the area, but said their concerns were ultimately not reflected in the Authority’s decision.
The party urged the Government to act before the remaining applications are decided by acquiring the rest of the land and granting it permanent protection. Dr Farrugia said, “If the Government was sincere in its promise to protect Nigret, it still has the opportunity to act.” Momentum added that Malta should not continue losing open spaces “one permit at a time” and said it would continue supporting residents campaigning to protect Nigret. The party also warned that the Swatar Birkirkara–Msida Valley could face a similar outcome, with comparable applications currently awaiting Planning Authority decisions.
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