An application for a parcel of land on the Ghadira seafront to be given by concession to the Danish Village was withdrawn on the same day it was due to be decided by the Planning Authority.
Mellieha Holiday Complex, as it is formally known, had applied for a concession on the rocky area located between the two sandy beaches at Ghadira – the only zone where barbeques are allowed. The area is connected to the holiday complex by a tunnel.
The application was for the setting up of demountable platforms with sunbeds on the area. It was filed in 2006 but only came to light recently, leading to public outcry.
The application was withdrawn on Monday after late objections were filed by the Lands Authority and the Malta Tourism Authority.
The Lands Authority said it had not been consulted while the MTA had originally filed a no-objection but later changed its stance.
MTA said it had changed its position “due to overriding circumstances” stemming from the fact that the size of Għadira beach had decreased due to weather conditions. It said, however, that it could revert to its original position should the beach show signs of recovery and increase in surface area.
The government plans to extend the sandy beach.
