A public consultation on the use of the former oil storage facility at San Luċjan, in the Qajjenza area of

Birżebbuġa, opened today. This was announced by the Minister for Gozo and Planning Clint Camilleri and the Minister for the Environment, Energy and Public Cleanliness Miriam Dalli.

With the publication of the objectives, the Planning Authority is launching a partial review of the local plan to guide the regeneration of this area, while work also begins on drafting a Development Brief.

The ministers explained that the “is-Siċċa” initiative is in line with the Government’s strategic objectives to strengthen Malta’s blue and green economy, while creating new opportunities for sustainable development and more open public spaces.

“This is another step forward in our plan to transform an industrial space into a sustainable and modern site that promotes innovation, the environment, and the community. We want our vision for this place to be built on foundations shaped through consultation and careful planning,” said Minister Miriam Dalli. “At the same time we want to keep our promise to the residents of Birżebbuġa and surrounding areas that we will leave them with a better place, after many years of having to live with and adapt to an industrial plant.”

Minister Dalli also noted that the cleaning operation of the storage tanks is currently underway, with nine out of twelve tanks already cleaned. The collected material is packed and stored in specialised containers and prepared for export, in accordance with European Union environmental regulations, to certified facilities within the EU.

Minister for Gozo and Planning Clint Camilleri explained that a partial local plan review has been launched so that the unused tanks in Qajjenza can be transformed into recreational spaces and open areas with various ancillary activities, returning this space to the public. He described it as an important project, driven forward in collaboration with Minister Miriam Dalli, with the Planning Authority making the necessary legislative and policy changes to enable the project and the removal of the tanks.

The proposed objectives for the review are designed to establish a balanced and forward-looking vision for the area, with a focus on:

1. Promoting education, innovation, and technology

2. Supporting cultural, entertainment, and recreational activities

3. Transforming hard surfaces into green areas

4. Promoting sustainable initiatives and investments

These objectives are intended to work together to create a comprehensive development plan that respects the character of the area while enabling new opportunities for public use, innovation, and sustainable economic activity.

In addition, the Development Brief aims to ensure a balanced mix of uses for the site.

The proposals will also seek to improve accessibility through better pedestrian access and the provision of adequate parking.

The Planning Authority is encouraging all interested parties to review the proposals and submit their feedback

during the consultation period. More details can be found at www.pa.org.mt/consultation.

Submissions should be made through the official online form available at publicconsultation.gov.mt. Any queries should be sent by email to: sanlucjan_consultation @pa.org.mt.