The Malta Tourism Authority “finds no objection” to a 15-storey hotel at Sliema Ferries, drawing the ire of many who claim that the development will fundamentally alter the streetscape and throw the row of townhouses behind it in perpetual darkness.

In its submission to the Planning Authority, the tourism and hospitality regulator pointed to a Tourism Compliance Certificate date 7th May 2023, saying that upon review of the plans it has deemed the proposal to still be within the certificate’s parameters.

The application PA/02965/23 describes plans for the demolition of existing internal structures - with the existing facades to be retained - and redevelopment of same property into a three-star hotel, consisting of 14 floors plus a receded floor level.

The project will also involve a ground floor level restaurant, ancillary offices, meeting and conference rooms at levels one to four, hotel rooms at levels five to 14 and a bar. A pool and a deck at receded floor level are also part of the proposals.

The proposed development, which will replace a three to four-storey-high corner building, is set to tower above the present residences in Triq San Vincenz that currently stand at a three-storey height

Speaking to WhosWho.mt earlier this month, Mr Stivala explained that the proposal is entirely in line with current planning policies.

However, many have questioned the need for more three-star establishments. A study commissioned by the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association caused a stir last year when it found that Malta would need to attract 4.7 million tourists a year if the hotels that were planned at the time were built.

Since the report’s publication, there has been increased public scrutiny of further development of tourist accommodation. In fact, Mr Stivala’s application, one of two on the same stretch of road, has attracted a multitude of objections, for reasons as varied as the increased pressure on infrastructure and the loss of access to sunlight for the houses situated behind it.