An application that would see the Panorama Hotel in Mellieħa rise to eight storeys has continued to draw objections, notably from the local council, the heritage watchdog and neighbours.
Located on top of a ridge close to the Mellieħa parish church, the hotel was built in 1966 and commands breathtaking views of Għadira Bay. A development application was filed last August to build two additional storeys, only for the proposal to be revised a few weeks later to add another floor.
The application was filed by 2018 Eurovision Song Contest participant Christabelle Borg on behalf of her father, Vincent Borg of V&C Developments.
Under a 2014 policy, hotels could be allowed to build two extra storeys, if not more. If the Planning Authority were to issue the permit, the structure would significantly alter the village core skyline due to its proximity to the parish church, a prominent landmark, objectors argued.
In its submission, the local council said the proposal would be in breach of the height limitation adjustment policy for hotels.
In particular, it pointed out that site area covering 424.3 square metres was by far below the minimum permissible 5,000 square metres and that it was…
