Nhar is-17 taa Awissu 2004 delegazzjoni mill-Kunsill Lokali ta' Sannat flimkien mal-Banda Santa Margerita u rappreżentanti ta' l-għaqdiet tar-raħal bdew żjara f'Pisoniano, raħal żgħir qalb il-muntanji li jagħmel parti mill-Provinċja taa Ruma. Id-delegazzjoni ġiet milqugħa b'entużjażmu kbir mir-residenti ta' dan ir-raħal.
Il-membri taż-żewġ kunsilli waqt laqgħa.
Il-mużew tal-canapa f'Pisoniano
Is-Sindku ta' Pisoniano
L-iffirmar tal-Ġemellaġġ sar nhar l-erbgħa 18 t'Awissu 2004 quddiem l-uffiċini tal-kunsill ta' Pisoniano. Għal din l-okkażżjoni ħadet sehem il-banda Santa Margerita li kienet taħt id-direzzjoni tas-Surmast Josef Debrincat. Waqt din l-okkażżjoni, fost l-oħrajn indaqqu l-innijiet Nazzjonali taż-żewġ Pajjiżi. Preżenti ukoll kien hemm l-ambaxxatur taa Malta fl-Italja s-Sur Patrick Cassar. Sar diskors mis-Sindku taa Sannat is-Sur Carmel Camilleri u mis-Sindku ta' Pisoniano Signor Vittorio Rocca. Wara sar bdil ta' tifkiriet u s-Sindku ta' Sannat ġie onorat biċ-Ċittadinanza ta' Pisoniano.
L-istandardi taż-żewġ kunsilli lokali ftit qabel iċ-ċerimonja tal-iffirmar tal-ġemellaġġ.
Is-sindku ta' Pisoniano jiffirma l-ftehim tal-Ġemellaġġ.
Is-Sindku ta' Sannat jiffirma l-kuntratt tal-Ġemellaġġ.
Is-Sindku ta' Pisoniano jħabbar l-Ġemellaġġ mal-lokalita ta' Sannat.
Is-Sindku ta' Sannat jiġi ppreżentat b'pittura ta' Pisoniano
Tul il-jiem li d-delegazzjoni damet f'Pisoniano hi ġiet imdawra ma' dan ir-raħal pittoresk. Żaret il-mużew tal-'Canapa', l-uniku li hemm ġewwa l-Italja. Id-delegazzjoni ttellgħet b'pellegrinaġġ fuq il-muntajna La Mentorella' fejn żaret is-Santwarju Marjan tal-'Madonna della Mentorella', mixja li ħadet aktar minn sagħtejn 'il fuq biss. Biex telgħet fuq din il-muntajna d-delegazzjoni għaddiet mis-Sentiero Carol Wojtylaa, jiġifieri mill-passaġġ li minnu kien jgħaddi l-papa preżenti biex jitla' fil-kunvent tal-patrijiet Pollakki fejn kien iqattaa ħafna ħin qabel ma laħaq Papa. Infatti kien minn hawn li l-Papa Ġwanni Pawlu II telaq biex mar il-vatikan fejn eventwalment laħaq Papa, u kien hawn l-ewwel post li żar bil-ħelikopter malli laħaq.
Id-delegazzjoni żaret ukoll Tivoli fejn żaret 'Villa d'Este', u Ruma fejn żaret fost l-oħrajn il-Vatikan. Nhar is-Sibt 21 t'Awissu, id-delegazzjoni żaret Montefiascone. Saret quddiesa fil-Katidral ta' Santa Margerita, fil-preżenza tar-Relikwa ta' Ras Santa Margerita li ftit tal-ġimgħat qabel kienet inġabet fir-raħal tagħna fl-okkażżjoni tal-festi ċentinarji. Il-Banda Santa Margerita daqqet l-innu 'Lil Margerita' fil-katidral stess, u kompliet iddoqq f'diversi toroq u pjazez ta' dan ir-raħal flimkien mal-banda ta' Montefiascone. Id-delegazzjoni kellha laqgħa kordjali ħafna mas-Sindku taa Montefiascone Signor Fernando Fumagalli, fejn fid-diskors tiegħu wera x-xewqa li jinbdew id-diskussjonijiet bejn iż-żewġ kunsilli li jistgħu jwasslu għall-iffirmar ta' ġemellaġġ bejn iż-żewġt irħula.
Il-Quddiesa fil-Kattedral ta' Montefiascone
Is-Sindku ta' Montefiascone, Prof. Fernando Fumigalli flimkien mas-sindku ta' Sannat
Is-sindku ta' Sannat, Piosniano u Montefiascone
Il-Ħadd 22 t'Awissu, 2004, id-delegazzjoni kienet mistiedna Cereto Laziale fejn il-Banda Santa Margerita flimkien ma tlett soċjetajiet mużikali oħra daqqew biċċiet mużikali. Fit-tmiem ta' din is-serata, l-erba' baned ingħaqdu flimkien u daqqew l-Innu Malti u l-Innu Taljan.
Waqt dawn il-jiem saru diskussjonijiet bejn il-membri taż-żewġ kunsilli, dwar il-ħidma ta' bejniethom, fuq aspetti soċjali, kulturali, sportivi, edukattivi u ekonomiċi.
Is-Sinkdi ta' Sannat u Pisoniano flimkien mal-ambaxxatur Malti għall-Italja
L-Iffirmar tal-Ġemellaġ bejn Sannat u Pisoniano
Nhar l-Erbgħa 20 ta’ Lulju sar l-iffirmar tat- tieni parti tal-Ġemellaġ bejn ir-raħal ta’ Sannat u dak ta’ Pisoniano, provinċja ta’ Ruma. Fis-7 ta’ filgħaxija d-delegazzjoni Taljana flimkien mal-poplu Sannati attendiet għaċ-ċelebrazzjoni Solenni fil-knisja Parrokjali ta’ Sannat fl-okkażżjoni tal-festa liturġika ta’ Santa Margerita. Wara l-funzjoni, l-banda Santa Margerita akkumpanjat lid-delegazzjoni u lill-mistiedna, sa quddiem l-uffiċini tal-kunsill.
Quddiem l-uffiċini tal-Kunsill saru diskorsi ta’ l-okkażżjoni miż-żewġt Sindki, is-sur Carmel Camilleri u s-Sur Vittorio Rocca. Nqara u ġie ffirmat il-ġurament ta’ Lealta biż-żewġ lingwi. Is-Sindku ta’ Sannat iddikjara liċ-ċittadini ta’ Pisoniano bħala ċittadini ta’ Sannat, u ġew mqassma xi rigali ta’ l-okkażżjoni. Il-kunsill ta’ Sannat irregala lil poplu ta’ Pisoniano statwa ta’ Santa Margerita tal-fibre, li ser titpoġġa f’niċċa fil-faċċata tal-Knisja tagħhom. L-istatwa hija xogħol l-iskultur James Azzopardi, wild Sannati.
Tul is-sebgħat ’ijiem li din id-delegazzjoni għamlet fostna, ħadet sehem f’laqgħat u diskussjonijiet. ġew mdawra ma diversi postijiet turistiċi, u kulturali kemm f’Għawdex kif ukoll f’Malta. Id-delegazzjoni anke żaret l-iskola Profs Ġuże Aquilina. Ġiet mgħotija merħba kbira mill-istudenti li kienu qegħdin jattendu l-‘Iskola Sajf’. Fid-diskors li għamlu ż-żewġ Sindki enfasizzaw fuq l-iskambji edukattivi. Nhar l-Erbgħa 20 ta’ Lulju 2005 bil-kollaborazzjoni ma’ l-Għaqda Drammatika Sannat, il-Kunsill tellgħa ‘Sannat Talent Show’ fil-pjazza tar-raħal. Ħadu sehem diversi tfal u żagħżagħ mir-raħal tagħna. Dawn ipparteċipaw b’kant , żfin u daqq ta’ strumenti mużikali. Il-Ħamis 21 ta’ Lulju 2005 grupp mid-delegazzjoni Taljana u grupp ieħor minn ta’ Sannat sajru diversi ikel tradizzjonali taż-żewġt lokalitajiet fil-kċina ta’ Palazzo Margerita. Wara l-ikla id-delegazzjoni attendiet għal marċ taż-żgħażagħ organizzat mill-Kunsill. Il-marċ brijuż mill-banda Santa Margerita beda mill-Plots ta’ Seguna u spiċċa l-pjazza.
Tul il-jiem tal-festa d-delegazzjoni Taljana ħadet sehem attivi fil-funzjonijiet u l-attivitajiet li saru. F’Jum il-festa d-delegazzjoni attendiet flimkien mar-rapreżentanti tal-Kunsill ta’ Sannat għal Pontifikal Solenni li tmexxa mill-Kardinal Peter Kodwa A Turkson, Arċisqof ta’ Cape Coast fil-Ghana. Wara nofs in-nhar diversi persuni miż-żewġt irħula ħadu sehem attiv biex sar inkwaddru tal-fjuri fl-art, bil-wicc ta’ Santa Margerita. Hi u dieħla l-purċissjoni l-kardinal bir-relikwa, flimkien ma l-istatwa ta’ Santa Margerita għaddew minn fuq dan it-tapit tal-fjuri.
Dan ix-xogħol tradizzjonali fir-raħal ta’ Pisoniano jissejjaħ ‘Infiorata’. Fl-aħħar Ħadd ta’ Ġunju, fil-Corpus mijiet ta’ persuni f’dan ir-raħal jaħdmu tul il-lejl biex joħolqu madwar 33 kwadru ikkuluriet b’diversi fjuri u zrieragħ, b’tul ta’ madwar mitt metru. Filgħaxija minn fuq dan it-tapit tgħaddi l-purċissjoni bis-sagrament.
Iż-żjara tad-delegazzjoni f’raħalna ġiet fi tmiema t-Tnejn 25 ta’ Lulju 2005 b’barbeque kbir fil-bajja pittoreska ta’ Mġarr ix-Xini. Għal din l-attivita attendew id-delegazzjoni Taljana flimkien ma madwar tlett mitt ruħ minn ta’ Sannat. Attenda ukoll il-Kardinal Turkson.
Lino Bianco & Associates
Architect, Structural Design Studio
Environmental Management Consultancy
Urban Planning and Design Consultancy
Table of
Contents:
Introduction
1
1.1 Terms of Reference
1
1.2 The Issue
1
2.0
The Site
2
2.1 Characteristics
2
2.2 Brief Visual Overview
4
3.0
Landscapes Defined
4
4.0
Legal Framework
5
4.1 European Landscape Convention
5
4.2 The Mediterranean Landscape Charter
6
4.3 The Pan-European Biological and Landscape Strategy
7
4.4 The Habitats Council Directive 92/43/EEC
7
4.5 The European Union Biodiversity Strategy
8
5.0
Local Planning Framework
9
5.1 Planning Policy
9
5.2 Scheduled Properties
10
6.0
Mgarr Ix-Xini Regional Park: The underlying
philosophy
14
Photographs:
Photo 1: A collage of
cultural and natural, urban and rural landscapes
Photo 2: Olive grove (at
background) scheduled for its arboreal value
Photo 3: Harvest time
-agricultural activity in the area is characterized by dryland framing
Photo 4: Collapsed walls
along Triq Ta' Gruwa panoramic road conspicuously mar overall aesthetics
Photo 5: Impressive, well
weathered, Victorian property marker
Photo 6: A study of a
scheduled rubble wall
Photo 7: Boundary walls
(to the left) along Triq Ta' Gruwa panoramic road need to be replaced by
aesthetically acceptable rubble walls
Photo 8: An aesthetically
pleasing conglomerate of traditional, small-scale agriculture, rich valley
ecosystem and religious culture
Photo 9: Pumping station
and aqueduct scheduled for their historical value while the valley is
scheduled for its rich biodiversity
Photo 10: Ghar ix-Xih,
scheduled for its edological value, has its own cultural echoes
Photo 11: Boundary walls
(to the left) along Triq Ta' Gruwa panoramic road need to be replaced by
aesthetically acceptable rubble walls
Photo 12: The fjord-like
beauty of Mgarr ix-Xini inlet
The Project
Description Statement for the proposed Mgarr Ix-Xini Regional Park is a
response to a request by Sannat Local Council and Xewkija Local Council to
develop a joint initiative aimed at protecting, safeguarding, sustaining
and
enhancing the ecosensitive, geocultural landscapes of Mgarr Ix-Xini
valley. The aim of Sannat and Xewkija Local Councils is to develop a
regional park based on the concept of inclusivity rather than exclusivity
of the landowners and occupiers of properties falling within the
boundaries of the regional park: the Local Councils are the guarantors
while the land owners and occupiers are the prime movers.
Sannat and Xewkija Local
Councils were set up in terms of the Local Councils Act, 1993.[1]
One of the main functions of the Local Councils as listed in the Act is[2]
To provide for the
upkeeping and maintenance of, or improvement in, any street or footpath,
not being privately owned.
It is in this spirit that
the Local Councils of Sannat and Xewkija, will be jointly submitting a
development planning application in due course to restore and/or
reconstruct damaged rubble walls and, where absent, erect rubble walls to
a maximum height of three (3) courses along the proposed boundary of the
regional park and put markers delineating boundaries of same.
Mgarr Ix-Xini is an area,
which has long been identified for its significant geomorphological,
ecological, agrarian and cultural importance. Its tourist potential,
cultural, agrotouristic and otherwise, has not being exploited neither for
locals nor overseas visitors.
Sannat and Xewkija Local
Councils, in line with local legislation and planning policy, intend to
develop Mgarr Ix-Xini Valley and its environs into a regional park
(Drawing 16_04_01). Grounding the concept underlying this initiative is
the environmental planning strategy of the Malta Environment and Planing
Authority and other public agencies together with directives and legal
obligations, which the Maltese archipelago has to abide with.
The objectives of this
joint regional initiative is to protect, safeguard, sustain and enhance
the natural and cultural landscapes occurring within the proposed
boundaries of the park for present and future generations. The evolution
of these landscapes in geological, archaeological and historical time can
be largely traced. Memories, past and present, are a guarantor for the
mental and physical well being, metaphorical and literal, of locals and
Gozitans at large. The land and its surrounding environs recall various
phases in the natural and cultural evolution of Gozo. This should not be
left to pass unnoticed; this is what Gozitans need to know and experience
in order to develop a psychologically and physically healthy identity.
Despite the radical, highly agitated revolution in life styles and habits
of the younger generations of Gozitans, still the typical Gozitan
destination of Sunday strolls is Mgarr Harbour; Mgarr Ix-Xini Regional
Park will certainly be an alternative.
In order to physically
define the limits of the proposed Mgarr Ix-Xini Regional Park, the above
referred outline development planning consent is being requested by the
Local Councils of Sannat and Xewkija. It is the intention of both Local
Councils that property that will be affected by the boundary wall of the
proposed park is along a public right of way. No interference with
private property is envisaged. The respective Local Councils do not want
to interfere or in any way get involved in issues pertaining to land
ownership.
Mgarr Ix-Xini lies at the
south-eastern coast of Gozo. Mgarr Ix-Xini Valley, including its
tributary, is a steep-sided valley running north-west to south-east to the
fjord-like inlet of Mgarr Ix-Xini, the galleys’ haven for part of the
fleet that besieged Gozo in July 1551 which fleet took the main population
of the island into slavery.[3]
According to tradition, the Gozitan population was gathered by the Turks
in this valley prior their forced departure into captivity.
The area of Mgarr Ix-Xini
is characterised by one of the main fault systems on the island that gave
rise to the present geomorphology and the valley system. The main
geological formations surfacing in the area are the Oligocene Lower
Coralline Limestone and the Miocene Globigerina Limestone.[4]
The members of the Lower Coralline Limestone which outcrops in the area
are the Attard and Xlendi members. All members of the Globigerina
Limestone Formation, namely, the Lower, Middle and the Upper, outcrop in
the area. The main soils occurring in the area, that is, terra rossa –
Xaghra series, xerorendzina – San Biagio series and carbonate raw soils –
San Lawrenz series, largely mirror the parent material present with some
degree of human interference.[5]
Terra rossa occurs where Lower Coralline outcrops while xerorendzinas and
carbonate raw soils occur where Globigerina and Blue Clay surface.
The Mgarr Ix-Xini Valley
is rich in biodiversity and supports ecologically significant plant
communities. Maquis communities characterise its bed while karstic
garigue and maquis vegetation flourish on its sides. Together with the
coastal cliffs extending to Ta’ Cenc, it supports important bird nesting
sites. In the publication
Localities with Conservation Value in the Maltese Islands[6],
the entire Mgarr ix-Xini/Wied Sabbara area is considered of conservation
value:
Mgarr ix-Xini Valley is
the finest local example of a classical, steep-sided creek (drowned
valley) in Lower Coralline Limestone; both valleys support an important
flora including the very rare Spanish Broom Spartium junceum [Genista],
wild populations of Aloe vera [Sabbara, hence the name Wied Sabbara]
and the extremely rare Shrubby Cahmpion Silene fruticosa; it is
also one of the few remaining areas where the Barn Owl Tyto alba [Barbagann],
a species nearly extinct from the Maltese Islands, breeds.
Furthermore, the valley
is of significant cultural importance. A number of legends are tied with
the area.[7]
Also, architectural elements and building structures are present, ranging
from property markers to rock cut steps along the valley sides to the
former pumping station and other items of hydrological history.
Large-scale terracing of the area attests long standing anthropogenic
interference and dryland small-scale farming still flourishes, albeit with
pockets of land abandonment (Drawings 16_04_02_1 and 16_04_02_2). A
number of small-scale dairy husbandry units mark a more recent
intervention. Disturbed habitats, earmarked for restoration, are present
in the area known as Ta’ Trajsu. Development planning history since the
establishment of the Planning Authority in 1992, is plotted in Drawings
16_04_04_1 and 16_04_04_2.
Mgarr Ix-Xini is one of
the most panoramic sites in Gozo. Photographs 1 to 12 give a brief visual
overview of the valley and the rich surrounding environs, various
landscapes of significant amenity value, aesthetic and otherwise. It
illustrates contemporary agrarian activity being carried out in the area,
a setting of important ecological and geomorphological significance.
Anthropomorphic legacies of by gone time are also present. Photos of
boundary wall of proposed regional park covered by the outline planning
application which either need replacement (Photos 7 and 11) or
reconstruction (Photo 4) are included.
Landscape is defined as
“scenery as seen in a broad view”,[8]
yet defining landscapes is perplexing. Some view landscapes as the
biophysical characteristics of a given area in flux while for others it is
merely the superficial, visual aspect of same.[9]
Landscapes are the expression of the relationship that develops between
the human and the natural environments. In the most popular use of the
term, landscapes are merged with the notion of countryside and hence with
natural landscapes, even though untempered natural landscapes are nowadays
rare. This is due to changes in the sociological fabric, namely the
radical move towards urban conglomerates and the renewed interest in the
rural and relaxing landscapes. Another facet of rural landscapes is the
cultural aspect, the ‘local character’ which gives identity to a nation.
The Maltese character is primarily Mediterranean and is increasingly
threatened by urbanisation and modernisation of agricultural practice.
This holistic,
multi-dimensional approach to landscapes forces one to abandon the narrow
notion of conservation solely for its natural value, but extend it to the
multiplicity of values a landscape inherently sustains. A healthy
landscape significantly contributes to society’s physical and spiritual
well being, it being a fundamental factor contributing to its identity.
However, to retain healthy landscapes, developments must become
increasingly sustainable. As established in the Biodiversity Convention,
sustainable development encompasses environmental constraints, prevents
inappropriate development while enhancing the environment. Nature has
many facets: besides its scientific and environmental values which have
been underlined in the Biodiversity Convention, nature has its economic,
recreational and cultural values. Enhancing nature in its entirety
increases direct and indirect employment through, say, direct conservation
efforts and ecotourism, provided the infrastructure is well marketed.
However, nature has its own intangible intrinsic value – how can one
assess the pleasure in viewing a beautiful landscape, or the positive
effect on one’s health?
There is an increasing
evidence suggesting health and emotional stability of a population may be
profoundly influenced by frustrating aspects of an urban, biologically
artificial environment. It seems likely that we are genetically
programmed to a natural habitat of clean air and a varied green landscape
… it is evident that in our daily lives nature must be thought of not as a
luxury to be made available if possible, but as part of our inherent
indispensable need.[10]
Moreover, as emphasised
in the UNESCO Convention on the Protection of the World Cultural and
Natural Heritage, present generations have the obligation to conserve
natural assets to future generations.
Europe’s biological and
landscape diversity is one of our greatest riches. It is a heritage
passed down to us over thousands of years and linked to other natural
systems worldwide. We have a shared responsibility to pass this heritage
on to future generations as a diverse and sustainable system.[11]
The Landscape Convention[12]
was drawn by the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of Europe
within the Council of Europe due to concerns “to achieve sustainable
development based on a balanced and harmonious relationship between social
needs, economic activity and the environment”. The only one of its kind
in exclusively addressing European landscapes, the Landscape Convention
aims at protecting, managing and enhancing European landscapes. In fact,
it is declared that signatories "wish to provide a new instrument devoted
exclusively to the protection, management and planning of all landscapes
in Europe." The aim is to consolidate the European identity through the
protection and management of the diverse landscapes.
… the landscape has an
important public interest role in the cultural, ecological, environmental
and social fields, and constitutes a resource favourable to economic
activity and whose protection, management and planning can contribute to
job creation [and that] developments … are in many cases accelerating the
transformation of landscapes
Signatories also
acknowledged that “the landscape is an important part of the quality of
life for people everywhere…” and “a key element of individual and social
well-being”, in response to public demand “to enjoy high quality
landscapes and to play an active part in the development of landscapes”.
For the purposes of the
Convention, landscape means “an area, as perceived by people, whose
character is the result of the action and interaction of natural and/or
human factors”. Any type of landscape may be worth promoting, those “that
might be considered outstanding as well as everyday or degraded
landscapes”. The objectives of this Convention are “to promote landscape
protection, management and planning, and to organise European co-operation
on landscape issues”.
[13]
This Charter was drawn in
preparation to the European Landscape Convention in view of the greater
sensitivity of the nature of Mediterranean landscapes given their unique
setup of nature and culture and their transforming agents due to
uncontrolled urban sprawl, tourism and loss of landscape values. It
defines the Mediterranean landscape as[14]
A reality built upon a
natural substrate although deeply marked by human agency and, at the same
time, as a fundamental resource for guiding and applying environmental,
regional planning and heritage management policies.
The Mediterranean
Landscape Charter also aims at including the landscape dimension in all
the stages of policy making and planning, and at increasing awareness and
appreciation of the Mediterranean landscape values for their better
protection.
The Pan-European
Biological and Landscape Strategy, endorsed by the Ministers of
Environment in Sofia in 1995 and is being implemented by the Council of
Europe in conjunction with the United Nations Environment Programme,[15]
seeks to strengthen the biological and landscape diversity in all social
and economic sectors, in response to the Biodiversity Convention.
Protecting specific areas or species is no longer held sustainable and the
greater the integration of the various stakeholders in conserving nature,
the greater the chance of success. More specifically, in the Fourth
Action Theme regarding the Conservation of Landscapes,[16]
it is highlighted that
- further degradation of
landscapes and the cultural and geological heritage they represent should be
prevented;
- the beauty and
identity of landscapes should be preserved;
- an integrated view of
landscapes as part of a unique mosaic of cultural, natural and geological
features is developed; and
- making the public and
policy makers more aware of landscapes to ensure their protection.
To this effect, landscape
protection is here not perceived as rigid conservation, but in a more
inclusive manner where the right to profitability is balanced by the right
to visual amenity.
The aim of the Habitats
Directive on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and
flora is to conserve natural habitats and species in the European Union,
keeping in mind the economic, social and cultural requirements and
regional and local characteristics.[17]
With this directive a European-wide ecological network of special areas of
conservation is set up, termed Natura 2000 programme. By this programme,
Member States are bound to maintain and even develop “features of the
landscape which are of major importance for wild fauna and flora” in their
respective areas of conservation value.[18]
Moreover, they are bound to avoid their deterioration and promote
sustainable development in the vicinity of the protected areas.[19]
In response to the Bern
Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats,
the European Union set up the European Biodiversity Strategy[20]
in order
to anticipate, prevent
and attack the causes of significant reduction or loss of biodiversity at
the source. This will help both to reverse present trends in biodiversity
reduction or losses and to place species and ecosystems, including
agro-ecosystems, at a satisfactory conservation status…
Following rigorous
environmental surveying, the Gozo & Comino Local
Plan[21]
acknowledged the natural and cultural importance of the Mgarr ix-Xini area
and designated it as an Area of High Landscape Value with Triq ta’ Gruwa/Triq
ta’ Mgarr ix-Xini as a panoramic route.[22]
The Structure Plan for the Maltese Islands[23]
has long recognised the importance of establishing areas of landscape
value and it is emphasised that development in rural areas will be
strictly controlled since the Malta Environment and Planning Authority
recognises the countryside as one of the “nation’s most valuable natural
resources”, especially in scheduled areas.[24]
Structure Plan Policies AHF 7 and 8 encourage the enhancement of
landscapes through the removal of visual intrusions.[25]
Moreover, in the Structure Plan it is recognised that “natural
landscapes are intimately related to agricultural activity” and that both
have to be protected from undue developments.[26]
In the spirit of Policy
REC 13 of the Structure Plan, the Gozo & Comino Local Plan
has established Mgarr ix-Xini area as a linear country parkway and a
circular walking route.[27]
The Structure Plan emphasises the need of a management plan for the
upkeep of country parkways.[28]
In the Local Plan, the entire valley is designated as a Dark Sky Heritage
Area.[29]
Arable land in the area is considered as of Agricultural Value. The
designation of Areas of Agricultural Value is primarily intended as a
preservation device for rural land against undue development including
modern agriculture and dereliction.[30]
The area known as Ta’ Trajsu is earmarked as disturbed habitat to be
eventually restored back to its original land use.[31]
The natural and cultural
heritage of Mgarr ix-Xini area has long been acknowledged and Wied Mgarr
ix-Xini and Wied Sabbara have been scheduled in November 2001 for their
ecological, geomorphological and cultural heritage importance.[32]
Mgarr ix-Xini watercourse is scheduled as Level 1 Areas of Ecological
Importance and Level 1 Site of Scientific Importance (Ecology), while the
valley sides is scheduled as Level 3 Areas of Ecological Importance,
except for GHar ix-Xih area which is scheduled as Level 2 Area of
Ecological Importance. The entire valley is scheduled as Level 1 Site of
Scientific Importance (Geomorphology).[33]
In the Explanatory Memorandum of the Structure Plan, it is
emphasised that “a general presumption against development” will prevail
in Areas of Ecological Importance and Sites of Scientific Importance,[34]
which areas are actually encouraged to be included in international
listings of protected areas[35].
The ecological and geological importance of the area has been largely
underlined by the Gozo & Comino Local Plan, with minor variations,
both in grading and delineations.[36]
Given the geomorphology of Mgarr ix-Xini valley and its concomitant high
level of biodiversity, it is designated as a Category A valley by the
Local Plan,[37]
while the valley is considered as garigue.[38]
Moreover, Mgarr ix-Xini valley is considered as a watercourse,[39]
while the mouth of the valley is considered as an area prone to flooding.
In the Government
Gazette a number of features have been scheduled as Grade 1, 2, 3 or
Class B (Table 1 and Drawings 16_04_03_1 and 16_04_03_2).[40]
The archaeological importance of the area is also acknowledged by the
Local Plan which designates parts of Mgarr ix-Xini area as of
Archaeological Importance.[41]
The olive grove at the
northwestern part of the area known as Ta’ Blankas and part of the Mgarr
ix-Xini watercourse are designated as Scheduled Trees.[42]
The Ta` Blankas olive grove and the trees at Il-Misrah are designated
afforested areas in the Gozo & Comino Local Plan.[43]
Table 1:
Scheduled Features
Feature No.
Grade
1
1
2
2
3
1
4
2
5
1
6
1
7
1
8
1
9
1
10
1
11
1
12
3
13
Buffer Zone
14
1
15
3
Victorian property
markers
1
6.0
Mgarr Ix-Xini Regional
Park: The underlying philosophy
The philosophy underlying
the concept on which the Mgarr Ix-Xini Regional Park is grounded in quite
an innovative approach to protected area management in the Maltese
Islands, that is an inclusive, people-oriented approach.[44]
The initiative of Sannat and Xewkija Local Councils to develop this
regional park places the islands on the forefront of environmental
management and marks a significant threshold in sustainable socio-economic
planning in Gozo; both Local Councils conceived this regional park as a
Gozitan initiative for Gozo.
The global approach
towards protected area management has been radically changed from a
narrow, exclusive approach towards a broader, more inclusive attitude,
with the definition and objectives of protected areas becoming more
flexible. Where previously protected areas were designated such for their
conservation value, they are now shifting “towards protected area
networks as part of a landscape or bioregional approach to planning.”[45]
Conserving landscapes requires a regional approach because conserving
little pieces of land leads to fragmentation that is the key to failure.
It is to this effect that ecological networks are being globally set up in
order to maximise their protection success rating. The design of a
protected area should not be[46]
islands of biodiversity
in an otherwise degraded landscape. Under a bioregional approach to
conservation, protected areas are planned and managed as part of a mosaic
of land uses that together seeks to satisfy environmental and social
needs.
Since the Natura 2000
programme of the European Union has to be completed by 2004, the Malta
Environment and Planning Authority had recently established the National
Ecological Network of Special Areas of Conservation.[47]
However, Mgarr ix-Xini is conspicuously missing in the official Network,
even though the area has long been highlighted for its unique natural
features and had been scheduled for protection.[48]
It is significant to note
that six IUCN categories of Protected Areas are now in use – nature
reserves or wilderness areas, national parks, natural monuments, habitat
management areas, protected landscapes and managed resource protected
areas.[49]
The first three categories are the classical conservation areas protected
for their biodiversity value, while the last two categories extend their
sense of protection to cultural, aesthetical and recreational values
amongst other aims. Including other facets to protected areas than strict
conservation[50]
… may be seen as less
threatening because protection does not necessarily mean a complete block
on human activity. They are likely to lead to new management options in a
wide range of situations, and open up the possibility of innovative
partnerships between conservationists and other interest groups, such as …
the tourism industry and small-scale agriculture.
This approach is entirely grounded in the spirit of the European Landscape
Convention which incorporates the social and economic aspects into the
environmental fabric of landscape protection and management, the overall
aim being to promote Mgarr ix-Xini landscape.[51]
In line with national planning policy, compatible with international
practice, the proposed Mgarr ix-Xini Regional Park will serve as a
catalyst to further landscape appreciation. The planning application for
upgrading the boundary delineating same shall be endorsed by the Malta
Environment and Planning Authority in terms of Gozo & Comino Local Plan
Policy GZ-RECR-3.[52] This
planning application is required in order that the proposed area of the
regional park is managed and monitored by the respective Local Councils of
Sannat and Xewkija through ‘Mgarr ix-Xini Regional Park Environmental
Guides’. These guides will be vested with responsibilities to inform and
educate visitors to the area while monitoring and enforcing current
legislation. This ensures that Mgarr ix-Xini Regional Park is protected,
safeguarded, sus
[1]Laws of Malta.
Act No. XV of 1993.
[2] Ibid, Section 33(1)(a).
[3]
Bezzina, J., Forty Legends From Gozo, Victoria-Gozo, Gaulitana
No. 9, Second Edition, 1997, p.23.
[4]
Oil Exploration Directorate, Geological Map of the Maltese Islands: Gozo and
Comino, Office of
the Prime Minister, Valletta, Malta, 1993. Plotted at scale 1:25,000.
[5]
Lang, D.M., Soils of Malta and Gozo,
H.M.S.O., 1960. Plotted at scale 1:31,680.
[6]
Schembri, P.J., E. Lanfranco, P. Farrugia, S. Schembri and J. Sultana,
Localities with Conservation Value in the Maltese Islands,
Ministry of Education, 1987, p.18.
[7]These include Ras in Newwiela,
Ghar ix-Xih and the revenge of the Xewkin (cfr. Bezzina, pp.16 and 23;
Bezzina, J., Forty More Legends From Gozo, Victoria-Gozo,
Gaulitana No. 13, 1994, pp.28-9).
[8] D. Thompson (ed.), The Oxford Dictionary of
Current English,
Oxford University Press, Second Edition, 1993.
[9] Luginbühl, Y., ‘Landscapes,
projects for a pluralist Europe’, Naturopa No.86, 1998.
[10]J.E. Todd (ed.), Biography,
1982.
[11]
Council of Europe/UNEP/European Centre for Nature Conservation, The
Pan-European Biological and Landscape Diversity Strategy: a vision for
Europe’s natural
heritage, 1996,
p.24.
[12]Council of
Europe, CETS No. 176,
Florence, 20th October 2000.
www.coe.int
The
Landscape Convention was open for signature on 20th October
2000 and entered into force on 1st March 2004. Malta is one
of the Signatory States.
[13]Thus,
each member state of the Council of Europe is bound to
a.
to recognise
landscapes in law as an essential component of peoples surroundings,
an expression of the diversity of their shared cultural and natural
heritage, and a foundation of their identity;
b.
to establish and
implement landscape policies aimed at landscape protection, management
and planning through the adoption of the specific measures set out in
Article 6;
c.
to establish
procedures for the participation of the general public, local and
regional authorities, and other parties with an interest in the
definition and implementation of the landscape policies mentioned in
paragraph b above;
d.
to integrate
landscape into its regional and town planning policies and in its
cultural, environmental, agricultural, social and economic policies,
as well as in any other policies with possible direct or indirect
impact on landscape.
Moreover, they are
bound to
a. i. to
identify its own landscapes throughout its territory;
ii. to
analyse their characteristics and the forces and pressures
transforming them;
iii. to
take note of changes;
b. to assess the
landscapes thus identified, taking into account the particular values
assigned to them by the interested parties and the population
concerned.
Additionally, each
Party is bound to
to define landscape
quality objectives for the landscapes identified and assessed
Landscape protection means “actions to
conserve and maintain the significant or characteristic features of a
landscape, justified by its heritage value derived from its natural
configuration and/or from human activity”. Landscape management means
“action, from a perspective of sustainable development, to ensure the
regular upkeep of a landscape, so as to guide and harmonise changes
which are brought about by social, economic and environmental processes”
and landscape planning means “strong forward-looking action to enhance,
restore or create landscapes”.
[14]
Zoido Naranjo, F., ‘The Mediterranean Landscape Charter: An Idea that is
gaining ground’, Naturopa No. 86, 1998.
[15]
Council of Europe/UNEP/European Centre for Nature Conservation, The
Pan-European Biological and Landscape Diversity Strategy: a vision for
Europe’s natural
heritage, 1996,
p.28.
[16]Council of Europe/UNEP/European
Centre for Nature Conservation, The Pan-European Biological and
Landscape Diversity Strategy: a vision for Europe’s natural heritage,
1996, p.41.
Natural
habitats of conservation worth means those which
(Article 3)
(i) are in danger
of disappearance in their natural range; or
(ii) have a small
natural range following their regression or by reason of their
intrinsically restricted area; or
(iii)present outstanding
examples of typical characteristics of one or more of the five
following biogeographical regions: Alpine, Atlantic, Continental,
Macaronesian and Mediterranean
[18]
Directive 92/43/EEC, Article 3.
[19]Directive 92/43/EEC, Article 6
states that
3. Any plan or
project not directly connected with or necessary to the management of
the site but likely to have a significant effect thereon, either
individually or in combination with other plans or projects, shall be
subject to appropriate assessment of its implications for the site in
view of the site's conservation objectives. In the light of the
conclusions of the assessment of the implications for the site and
subject to the provisions of paragraph 4, the competent national
authorities shall agree to the plan or project only after having
ascertained that it will not adversely affect the integrity of the
site concerned and, if appropriate, after having obtained the opinion
of the general public.
4. If, in spite of a
negative assessment of the implications for the site and in the
absence of alternative solutions, a plan or project must nevertheless
be carried out for imperative reasons of overriding public interest,
including those of a social or economic nature, the Member State shall
take all compensatory measures necessary to ensure that the overall
coherence of Natura 2000 is protected. It shall inform the Commission
of the compensatory measures adopted.
Where the site
concerned hosts a priority natural habitat type and/or a priority
species, the only considerations which may be raised are those
relating to human health or public safety, to beneficial consequences
of primary importance for the environment or, further to an opinion
from the Commission, to other imperative reasons of overriding public
interest.
[21]Malta Environment and Planning
Authority, June 2002.
[22]Gozo & Comino Local Plan Map
13.1-B. This map notes that the indicated areas of high landscape value
may include disturbed ground which is envisaged to be restored through
the rehabilitation of damaged landscapes (see remark in legend of Map
13.1-B).
[23]
Ministry for Development of Infrastructure, Planning Services Division,
December 1990.
[24]
Ibid, para. 15.21, p. 91.
[25]
Policy AHF 7 states that
The removal of visual
intrusions in the landscape, the reinstatement and maintenance of
random stone boundary walls, and the establishment of rights of way
will be a condition of development permits.
Policy AHF 8 states
that
Further measures will
be developed to promote the reinstatement and maintenance of random
rubble walls throughout the countryside with priority given to walls
alongside rural roads, and for the removal of visual intrusions.
[26]Structure Plan for the
Maltese Islands,
para. 15.27, p. 92.
[27] Gozo
& Comino Local Plan, Map 10.3.3, thus subject to Policies GZ-RECR-1
and GZ-RECR-3. Policy GZ-RECR-1 states that
Proposals to
encourage informal rural recreation will be given favourable
consideration provided that … conditions are observed…
Policy REC 13
establishes a country parkway
From Mgarr eastwards
along the coast to Wardija off Qala, and west to Mgarr ix-Xini and
along Wied Hanzira.
Country parkways are (Structure
Plan for the Maltese Islands, Para. 13.30, p.71)
Public rights of way
and their immediate surroundings within which a variety of open air
recreational activities will be located. The parkways will link
tourism and/or recreation attractions by tracing routes through areas
that are of intrinsic natural and/or man made value.
Policy GZ-RECR-3 states
that
Proposals for
upgrading walkways … will be favourably considered by MEPA provided
that all the following criteria are observed:
(a) the proposal
shall include one or more whole circular routes wherever possible;
(b) a management
programme that clearly indicates responsibilities and
accountabilities, phasing of projects, implementation and maintenance
programmes, will be prepared and submitted together with the planning
application; and
(c) proposals for
the creation of new pedestrian routes (i.e. excluding vehicular
access) other than those indicated … will need to be strongly
justified. The creation of new pedestrian routes on garrigue or
boulder screes shall be prohibited.
[28]Structure Plan for the
Maltese Islands,
para. 13.31, p.71
[29]Gozo & Comino Local Plan
Map 13.8, thus
subject to Policy GZ-DARK-1 which states that
…Where relevant,
reflective signs shall be employed to guide driving at night whilst
the installation of lighting which is not related to aerial or
maritime navigation, shall be strongly discouraged.
[30]
Structure Plan Policies RCO 8 and 9.
[31]Gozo & Comino Local Plan
Map 10.3.3, thus
subject to Policy GZ-RLCN-5 which states that
The areas indicated …
are indicated as candidate sites for rehabilitation of damaged
landscapes. Rehabilitation can also be integrated with the provisions
of local plan policies GZ-RECR-1, 2 and 3.
[32]
Government Gazette, November 9, 2001, pp. 9110-9121.
[33]Structure Plan RCO 11 gives
guidelines for the designation of Sites of Scientific Importance and
Policy RCO 12 defines the protection ratings. Thus,
1.LEVEL 1 zones include
habitat types present only in small areas and/or sites with unique
species or features
2.LEVEL 2 zones will
include important habitat types present in relatively large areas
and/or sites with rare Species or features
3.LEVEL 3 zones will
include areas where control is necessary to preserve
habitats/species/features in adjacent sites
4.LEVEL 4 zones will
Include habitats and/or features of general interest
For Level 1
protection, the following applies (Structure Plan for the Maltese Islands, Explanatory
Memorandum, para.
15.35, p.101)
1.Human intervention
kept to the barest minimum
2.No physical
development
3.All efforts made to
protect the identified features of scientific interest
4.Management by the
competent Government agency in an appropriate manner
For Level 2
protection, the following applies (Structure Plan for the Maltese Islands, Explanatory
Memorandum, para.
15.38, p.102)
1.Human intervention
strictly controlled
2.Physical development
limited to the maintenance of already existing structures, and
construction of minor amenities designed to enhance the educational
and recreational use of the area (eg. narrow footpaths, nature trails,
small scale visitor centres). Any such developments to be carried out
with the least possible damage to the environment
3.Traditional
activities (eg. agriculture) can continue, unless in conflict with
other policies, but no new land diverted to these uses except for the
suitable re-establishment of abandoned fields for agriculture
For Level 3 protection,
the following applies (Planning Services Division, Structure Plan for
the Maltese Islands, Explanatory Memorandum, December 1990, para.
15.39, p.102)
1.No residential,
industrial, commercial, or tourism development
2.No infrastructure of
public utility works
3.Small scale physical
development an be considered providing the adjacent AEIs and SSIs are
protected, and this is demonstrated by a suitable environmental impact
assessment, and is consistent with other policies
[34]
Structure Plan for the Maltese Islands, Explanatory Memorandum,
para.15.34, p.101 which states
In designated Areas
of Ecological Importance (AEI) and Sites of Scientific Importance (SSI)
the following general protection will apply:
1.A general presumption
against development, including roads and public utility services, and
particularly on crests of ridges and the edges of coastal and inland
cliffs
2.A general presumption
against activities likely to be a fire risk to a significant wooden
area
3.
A general presumption against
development where noxious emissions are likely to create problems in
nearby AEI and SSI
4.The removal of
intrusive elements
5.The inclusion of
buffer zones to further their protection
[35]Structure Plan for the
Maltese Islands, Explanatory Memorandum,
para.15.37, p.102 which states
The W[orld]
C[onservation] U[nion] management classification system is
internationally accepted, and should be used for AEIs and SSIs…
[36]
These include that the Mgarr ix-Xini watercourse has been designated a
rating of Level 2 or higher of Ecological Importance, while the GHar ix-Xih
area is designated a Level 3 rating. The Ta` Blankas olive grove has
been assigned a rating of Level 2 or higher.
Gozo & Comino
Local Plan Map
13.1-A and Map 14.13-E. This makes the entire area subject to Policy
GZ-RLCN-1 which states that
The areas indicated …
shall be deemed to qualify for scheduling status according to the
provisions of Structure Plan policies RCO’s 1-5 and RCO’s 10-12 … the
designation covers areas of scientific importance and areas of
ecological importance…
Apart from the normal
restrictions on development in rural areas, there shall be a strong
presumption against the creation of new built structures (including
cultivation and animal husbandry related structures) in AHLVs…
Structure Plan Policies
RCO 1 to 5 aim at protecting scheduled areas from undue and incompatible
developments, while Policy RCO 10 gives guidelines for designations of
Areas of Ecological Importance and includes
Representative
examples of typical Maltese habitats such as garigue, maquis, valley
sides, watercourses…
[37]Gozo & Comino Local Plan
Map 13.2 and thus
subject to Policy GZ-RLCN-2 which states that
The valleys indicated
… shall be designated to qualify in terms of Structure Plan Policy RCO
29…
Category A Valleys
shall be fully subject to the provisions of Structure Plan policy RCO
29.
Structure Plan Policy
RCO 29 aims at preserving such valleys intact and “no new physical
development” allowed.
[38]
Gozo & Comino Local Plan Map 13.3, thus subject to Policies
GZ-RLCN-3 and 4 which state that
There shall be a
general presumption against any form of development…on garrigue…
and, that
There shall be a
general presumption against the passage of services through garrigue…
[39]Gozo & Comino Local Plan
Maps 8.3.1 and
13.1-A, thus subject to Policy GZ- RLCN-2, vide footnote 35.
[40]
Structure Plan Policy UCO 7 defines
Grade 1: Buildings of
outstanding architectural or historical interest that shall be
preserved in their entirety. Demolition or alterations, which impair
the setting or change the external or internal appearance, including
anything contained within the cartilage of the building, will not be
allowed. Any Interventions allowed must be directed to their
scientific restoration and rehabilitation. Internal structural
alterations will only be allowed in exceptional circumstances where
this is paramount for reasons of keeping the building in active use.
Grade 2: Buildings of
some architectural or historical interest or which contribute to the
visual Image of an Urban Conservation Area. Permission to demolish
such buildings will not normally be given. Alterations to the Interior
will be allowed it proposed to be carried out sensitively and causing
the least detriment to the character and architectural homogeneity of
the building.
Grade 3: Buildings
which have no historical Importance and are of relatively minor
architectural Interest. Demolition may be permitted provided the
replacement building is in harmony with its surroundings.
Structure Plan Policy
ARC 2 defines Class B sites as
Very important to be
preserved at all costs. All measures to be taken to preclude any
damage from immediate development.
[41]Gozo & Comino Local Plan
Map 14.13-E, thus
subject to Policies GZ-ARCO-1 and GZ-ARCO-2 which state that
The scheduled
archaeological sites and the identified candidate archaeological sites
in Gozo …shall continue to be protected according to Structure Plan
policies ARC 2 to ARC 4. Safeguarded areas are being indicated for
identified archaeological sites… Until such time that the relevant
area or site is scheduled, requests for development permission shall
be considered in the light of the proposed scheduling.
and, that
MEPA will give
favourable considerations to development which facilitates the
interpretation of an archaeological monument, provided that all
… conditions are observed…
Structure Plan Policy
ARC 2 states that the Malta Environment and Planning Authority will give
a rating to scheduled archaeological sites.
Structure Plan Policy
ARC 3 states that no development will be permitted in areas of
archaeological importance
…if there is an
overriding case for preservation. Where there is no overriding case
for preservation, development of such sites will no normally be
permitted until adequate opportunities have been provided for the
recording and, where desirable, the excavation of such sites.
[42]
Gozo & Comino Local Plan Map 11.2 and thus subject to Policy
GZ-AGRI-1 which states that
MEPA will safeguard
Areas of Agricultural Importance …
[43]
Gozo & Comino Local Plan Map 11.2. Policy GZ-RLCN-6 states that
The areas shown …
shall be considered as location areas for the siting of afforestation
projects according to the provisions of Structure Plan policy RCO 31
and subject to the findings of a study assessing the effect of such
afforestation on the environment of the area. Submissions for
development permission shall include details on the implementation of
the project as well as its management…
Structure Plan Policy
RCO 31 states that
Afforestation project
sites in non urban areas will make use only of indigenous and
archaeophytic … species…
[44] A
protected area is defined as (IUCN, CNPPA, WCMC, Guidelines for
Protected Area Management Categories, 1994)
An area of land
and/or sea especially dedicated to the protection and maintenance of
biological diversity, and of natural and associated cultural
resources, and managed through legal or other effective means.
[45]Dudley, N. and S. Stolton,
Protected Areas for the New Millenium, January 1998, p.1,
www.iucn.org
[46]Ibid, p.5.
[47] In
Gozo, eight sites were assigned a Special Area of Conservation status.
These are In-Nuffara, Il-Gebla tal-Halfa, Il-Gebla tac-Cawla and L-GHadira
ta’ Sarraflu of national importance; of international importance are
Ix-Xlendi-Wied tal-Kantra Area, Dwejra/Qawra area, GHajn Barrani Area
and Ir-Ramla Area. www.mepa.org.mt
[48] The
Mgarr ix-Xini/Wied Sabbara valley complex had been scheduled in 2001 (Government
Gazette, November 9, 2001, pp. 9110-9121).
[49]A Protected Landscape is
defined as a protected area managed mainly for landscape conservation
and recreation.
A Managed
Resource Protected Area is defined as a protected area managed mainly
for the sustainable use of natural ecosystems.
www.iucn.org
[50]Dudley, N. and S. Stolton,
p.3.
[51]
Vide footnote 13.
[52]
Vide footnote 27
(c) copyright Xewkija Local Council 2004
Deskrizzjoni tal-Progett
Lino Bianco & Associates
Architect, Structural Design Studio
Environmental Management Consultancy
Urban Planning and Design Consultancy
Table of
Contents:
Introduction
1
1.1 Terms of Reference
1
1.2 The Issue
1
2.0
The Site
2
2.1 Characteristics
2
2.2 Brief Visual Overview
4
3.0
Landscapes Defined
4
4.0
Legal Framework
5
4.1 European Landscape Convention
5
4.2 The Mediterranean Landscape Charter
6
4.3 The Pan-European Biological and Landscape Strategy
7
4.4 The Habitats Council Directive 92/43/EEC
7
4.5 The European Union Biodiversity Strategy
8
5.0
Local Planning Framework
9
5.1 Planning Policy
9
5.2 Scheduled Properties
10
6.0
Mgarr Ix-Xini Regional Park: The underlying
philosophy
14
Photographs:
Photo 1: A collage of
cultural and natural, urban and rural landscapes
Photo 2: Olive grove (at
background) scheduled for its arboreal value
Photo 3: Harvest time
-agricultural activity in the area is characterized by dryland framing
Photo 4: Collapsed walls
along Triq Ta' Gruwa panoramic road conspicuously mar overall aesthetics
Photo 5: Impressive, well
weathered, Victorian property marker
Photo 6: A study of a
scheduled rubble wall
Photo 7: Boundary walls
(to the left) along Triq Ta' Gruwa panoramic road need to be replaced by
aesthetically acceptable rubble walls
Photo 8: An aesthetically
pleasing conglomerate of traditional, small-scale agriculture, rich valley
ecosystem and religious culture
Photo 9: Pumping station
and aqueduct scheduled for their historical value while the valley is
scheduled for its rich biodiversity
Photo 10: Ghar ix-Xih,
scheduled for its edological value, has its own cultural echoes
Photo 11: Boundary walls
(to the left) along Triq Ta' Gruwa panoramic road need to be replaced by
aesthetically acceptable rubble walls
Photo 12: The fjord-like
beauty of Mgarr ix-Xini inlet
The Project
Description Statement for the proposed Mgarr Ix-Xini Regional Park is a
response to a request by Sannat Local Council and Xewkija Local Council to
develop a joint initiative aimed at protecting, safeguarding, sustaining
and
enhancing the ecosensitive, geocultural landscapes of Mgarr Ix-Xini
valley. The aim of Sannat and Xewkija Local Councils is to develop a
regional park based on the concept of inclusivity rather than exclusivity
of the landowners and occupiers of properties falling within the
boundaries of the regional park: the Local Councils are the guarantors
while the land owners and occupiers are the prime movers.
Sannat and Xewkija Local
Councils were set up in terms of the Local Councils Act, 1993.[1]
One of the main functions of the Local Councils as listed in the Act is[2]
To provide for the
upkeeping and maintenance of, or improvement in, any street or footpath,
not being privately owned.
It is in this spirit that
the Local Councils of Sannat and Xewkija, will be jointly submitting a
development planning application in due course to restore and/or
reconstruct damaged rubble walls and, where absent, erect rubble walls to
a maximum height of three (3) courses along the proposed boundary of the
regional park and put markers delineating boundaries of same.
Mgarr Ix-Xini is an area,
which has long been identified for its significant geomorphological,
ecological, agrarian and cultural importance. Its tourist potential,
cultural, agrotouristic and otherwise, has not being exploited neither for
locals nor overseas visitors.
Sannat and Xewkija Local
Councils, in line with local legislation and planning policy, intend to
develop Mgarr Ix-Xini Valley and its environs into a regional park
(Drawing 16_04_01). Grounding the concept underlying this initiative is
the environmental planning strategy of the Malta Environment and Planing
Authority and other public agencies together with directives and legal
obligations, which the Maltese archipelago has to abide with.
The objectives of this
joint regional initiative is to protect, safeguard, sustain and enhance
the natural and cultural landscapes occurring within the proposed
boundaries of the park for present and future generations. The evolution
of these landscapes in geological, archaeological and historical time can
be largely traced. Memories, past and present, are a guarantor for the
mental and physical well being, metaphorical and literal, of locals and
Gozitans at large. The land and its surrounding environs recall various
phases in the natural and cultural evolution of Gozo. This should not be
left to pass unnoticed; this is what Gozitans need to know and experience
in order to develop a psychologically and physically healthy identity.
Despite the radical, highly agitated revolution in life styles and habits
of the younger generations of Gozitans, still the typical Gozitan
destination of Sunday strolls is Mgarr Harbour; Mgarr Ix-Xini Regional
Park will certainly be an alternative.
In order to physically
define the limits of the proposed Mgarr Ix-Xini Regional Park, the above
referred outline development planning consent is being requested by the
Local Councils of Sannat and Xewkija. It is the intention of both Local
Councils that property that will be affected by the boundary wall of the
proposed park is along a public right of way. No interference with
private property is envisaged. The respective Local Councils do not want
to interfere or in any way get involved in issues pertaining to land
ownership.
Mgarr Ix-Xini lies at the
south-eastern coast of Gozo. Mgarr Ix-Xini Valley, including its
tributary, is a steep-sided valley running north-west to south-east to the
fjord-like inlet of Mgarr Ix-Xini, the galleys’ haven for part of the
fleet that besieged Gozo in July 1551 which fleet took the main population
of the island into slavery.[3]
According to tradition, the Gozitan population was gathered by the Turks
in this valley prior their forced departure into captivity.
The area of Mgarr Ix-Xini
is characterised by one of the main fault systems on the island that gave
rise to the present geomorphology and the valley system. The main
geological formations surfacing in the area are the Oligocene Lower
Coralline Limestone and the Miocene Globigerina Limestone.[4]
The members of the Lower Coralline Limestone which outcrops in the area
are the Attard and Xlendi members. All members of the Globigerina
Limestone Formation, namely, the Lower, Middle and the Upper, outcrop in
the area. The main soils occurring in the area, that is, terra rossa –
Xaghra series, xerorendzina – San Biagio series and carbonate raw soils –
San Lawrenz series, largely mirror the parent material present with some
degree of human interference.[5]
Terra rossa occurs where Lower Coralline outcrops while xerorendzinas and
carbonate raw soils occur where Globigerina and Blue Clay surface.
The Mgarr Ix-Xini Valley
is rich in biodiversity and supports ecologically significant plant
communities. Maquis communities characterise its bed while karstic
garigue and maquis vegetation flourish on its sides. Together with the
coastal cliffs extending to Ta’ Cenc, it supports important bird nesting
sites. In the publication
Localities with Conservation Value in the Maltese Islands[6],
the entire Mgarr ix-Xini/Wied Sabbara area is considered of conservation
value:
Mgarr ix-Xini Valley is
the finest local example of a classical, steep-sided creek (drowned
valley) in Lower Coralline Limestone; both valleys support an important
flora including the very rare Spanish Broom Spartium junceum [Genista],
wild populations of Aloe vera [Sabbara, hence the name Wied Sabbara]
and the extremely rare Shrubby Cahmpion Silene fruticosa; it is
also one of the few remaining areas where the Barn Owl Tyto alba [Barbagann],
a species nearly extinct from the Maltese Islands, breeds.
Furthermore, the valley
is of significant cultural importance. A number of legends are tied with
the area.[7]
Also, architectural elements and building structures are present, ranging
from property markers to rock cut steps along the valley sides to the
former pumping station and other items of hydrological history.
Large-scale terracing of the area attests long standing anthropogenic
interference and dryland small-scale farming still flourishes, albeit with
pockets of land abandonment (Drawings 16_04_02_1 and 16_04_02_2). A
number of small-scale dairy husbandry units mark a more recent
intervention. Disturbed habitats, earmarked for restoration, are present
in the area known as Ta’ Trajsu. Development planning history since the
establishment of the Planning Authority in 1992, is plotted in Drawings
16_04_04_1 and 16_04_04_2.
Mgarr Ix-Xini is one of
the most panoramic sites in Gozo. Photographs 1 to 12 give a brief visual
overview of the valley and the rich surrounding environs, various
landscapes of significant amenity value, aesthetic and otherwise. It
illustrates contemporary agrarian activity being carried out in the area,
a setting of important ecological and geomorphological significance.
Anthropomorphic legacies of by gone time are also present. Photos of
boundary wall of proposed regional park covered by the outline planning
application which either need replacement (Photos 7 and 11) or
reconstruction (Photo 4) are included.
Landscape is defined as
“scenery as seen in a broad view”,[8]
yet defining landscapes is perplexing. Some view landscapes as the
biophysical characteristics of a given area in flux while for others it is
merely the superficial, visual aspect of same.[9]
Landscapes are the expression of the relationship that develops between
the human and the natural environments. In the most popular use of the
term, landscapes are merged with the notion of countryside and hence with
natural landscapes, even though untempered natural landscapes are nowadays
rare. This is due to changes in the sociological fabric, namely the
radical move towards urban conglomerates and the renewed interest in the
rural and relaxing landscapes. Another facet of rural landscapes is the
cultural aspect, the ‘local character’ which gives identity to a nation.
The Maltese character is primarily Mediterranean and is increasingly
threatened by urbanisation and modernisation of agricultural practice.
This holistic,
multi-dimensional approach to landscapes forces one to abandon the narrow
notion of conservation solely for its natural value, but extend it to the
multiplicity of values a landscape inherently sustains. A healthy
landscape significantly contributes to society’s physical and spiritual
well being, it being a fundamental factor contributing to its identity.
However, to retain healthy landscapes, developments must become
increasingly sustainable. As established in the Biodiversity Convention,
sustainable development encompasses environmental constraints, prevents
inappropriate development while enhancing the environment. Nature has
many facets: besides its scientific and environmental values which have
been underlined in the Biodiversity Convention, nature has its economic,
recreational and cultural values. Enhancing nature in its entirety
increases direct and indirect employment through, say, direct conservation
efforts and ecotourism, provided the infrastructure is well marketed.
However, nature has its own intangible intrinsic value – how can one
assess the pleasure in viewing a beautiful landscape, or the positive
effect on one’s health?
There is an increasing
evidence suggesting health and emotional stability of a population may be
profoundly influenced by frustrating aspects of an urban, biologically
artificial environment. It seems likely that we are genetically
programmed to a natural habitat of clean air and a varied green landscape
… it is evident that in our daily lives nature must be thought of not as a
luxury to be made available if possible, but as part of our inherent
indispensable need.[10]
Moreover, as emphasised
in the UNESCO Convention on the Protection of the World Cultural and
Natural Heritage, present generations have the obligation to conserve
natural assets to future generations.
Europe’s biological and
landscape diversity is one of our greatest riches. It is a heritage
passed down to us over thousands of years and linked to other natural
systems worldwide. We have a shared responsibility to pass this heritage
on to future generations as a diverse and sustainable system.[11]
The Landscape Convention[12]
was drawn by the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of Europe
within the Council of Europe due to concerns “to achieve sustainable
development based on a balanced and harmonious relationship between social
needs, economic activity and the environment”. The only one of its kind
in exclusively addressing European landscapes, the Landscape Convention
aims at protecting, managing and enhancing European landscapes. In fact,
it is declared that signatories "wish to provide a new instrument devoted
exclusively to the protection, management and planning of all landscapes
in Europe." The aim is to consolidate the European identity through the
protection and management of the diverse landscapes.
… the landscape has an
important public interest role in the cultural, ecological, environmental
and social fields, and constitutes a resource favourable to economic
activity and whose protection, management and planning can contribute to
job creation [and that] developments … are in many cases accelerating the
transformation of landscapes
Signatories also
acknowledged that “the landscape is an important part of the quality of
life for people everywhere…” and “a key element of individual and social
well-being”, in response to public demand “to enjoy high quality
landscapes and to play an active part in the development of landscapes”.
For the purposes of the
Convention, landscape means “an area, as perceived by people, whose
character is the result of the action and interaction of natural and/or
human factors”. Any type of landscape may be worth promoting, those “that
might be considered outstanding as well as everyday or degraded
landscapes”. The objectives of this Convention are “to promote landscape
protection, management and planning, and to organise European co-operation
on landscape issues”.
[13]
This Charter was drawn in
preparation to the European Landscape Convention in view of the greater
sensitivity of the nature of Mediterranean landscapes given their unique
setup of nature and culture and their transforming agents due to
uncontrolled urban sprawl, tourism and loss of landscape values. It
defines the Mediterranean landscape as[14]
A reality built upon a
natural substrate although deeply marked by human agency and, at the same
time, as a fundamental resource for guiding and applying environmental,
regional planning and heritage management policies.
The Mediterranean
Landscape Charter also aims at including the landscape dimension in all
the stages of policy making and planning, and at increasing awareness and
appreciation of the Mediterranean landscape values for their better
protection.
The Pan-European
Biological and Landscape Strategy, endorsed by the Ministers of
Environment in Sofia in 1995 and is being implemented by the Council of
Europe in conjunction with the United Nations Environment Programme,[15]
seeks to strengthen the biological and landscape diversity in all social
and economic sectors, in response to the Biodiversity Convention.
Protecting specific areas or species is no longer held sustainable and the
greater the integration of the various stakeholders in conserving nature,
the greater the chance of success. More specifically, in the Fourth
Action Theme regarding the Conservation of Landscapes,[16]
it is highlighted that
- further degradation of
landscapes and the cultural and geological heritage they represent should be
prevented;
- the beauty and
identity of landscapes should be preserved;
- an integrated view of
landscapes as part of a unique mosaic of cultural, natural and geological
features is developed; and
- making the public and
policy makers more aware of landscapes to ensure their protection.
To this effect, landscape
protection is here not perceived as rigid conservation, but in a more
inclusive manner where the right to profitability is balanced by the right
to visual amenity.
The aim of the Habitats
Directive on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and
flora is to conserve natural habitats and species in the European Union,
keeping in mind the economic, social and cultural requirements and
regional and local characteristics.[17]
With this directive a European-wide ecological network of special areas of
conservation is set up, termed Natura 2000 programme. By this programme,
Member States are bound to maintain and even develop “features of the
landscape which are of major importance for wild fauna and flora” in their
respective areas of conservation value.[18]
Moreover, they are bound to avoid their deterioration and promote
sustainable development in the vicinity of the protected areas.[19]
In response to the Bern
Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats,
the European Union set up the European Biodiversity Strategy[20]
in order
to anticipate, prevent
and attack the causes of significant reduction or loss of biodiversity at
the source. This will help both to reverse present trends in biodiversity
reduction or losses and to place species and ecosystems, including
agro-ecosystems, at a satisfactory conservation status…
Following rigorous
environmental surveying, the Gozo & Comino Local
Plan[21]
acknowledged the natural and cultural importance of the Mgarr ix-Xini area
and designated it as an Area of High Landscape Value with Triq ta’ Gruwa/Triq
ta’ Mgarr ix-Xini as a panoramic route.[22]
The Structure Plan for the Maltese Islands[23]
has long recognised the importance of establishing areas of landscape
value and it is emphasised that development in rural areas will be
strictly controlled since the Malta Environment and Planning Authority
recognises the countryside as one of the “nation’s most valuable natural
resources”, especially in scheduled areas.[24]
Structure Plan Policies AHF 7 and 8 encourage the enhancement of
landscapes through the removal of visual intrusions.[25]
Moreover, in the Structure Plan it is recognised that “natural
landscapes are intimately related to agricultural activity” and that both
have to be protected from undue developments.[26]
In the spirit of Policy
REC 13 of the Structure Plan, the Gozo & Comino Local Plan
has established Mgarr ix-Xini area as a linear country parkway and a
circular walking route.[27]
The Structure Plan emphasises the need of a management plan for the
upkeep of country parkways.[28]
In the Local Plan, the entire valley is designated as a Dark Sky Heritage
Area.[29]
Arable land in the area is considered as of Agricultural Value. The
designation of Areas of Agricultural Value is primarily intended as a
preservation device for rural land against undue development including
modern agriculture and dereliction.[30]
The area known as Ta’ Trajsu is earmarked as disturbed habitat to be
eventually restored back to its original land use.[31]
The natural and cultural
heritage of Mgarr ix-Xini area has long been acknowledged and Wied Mgarr
ix-Xini and Wied Sabbara have been scheduled in November 2001 for their
ecological, geomorphological and cultural heritage importance.[32]
Mgarr ix-Xini watercourse is scheduled as Level 1 Areas of Ecological
Importance and Level 1 Site of Scientific Importance (Ecology), while the
valley sides is scheduled as Level 3 Areas of Ecological Importance,
except for GHar ix-Xih area which is scheduled as Level 2 Area of
Ecological Importance. The entire valley is scheduled as Level 1 Site of
Scientific Importance (Geomorphology).[33]
In the Explanatory Memorandum of the Structure Plan, it is
emphasised that “a general presumption against development” will prevail
in Areas of Ecological Importance and Sites of Scientific Importance,[34]
which areas are actually encouraged to be included in international
listings of protected areas[35].
The ecological and geological importance of the area has been largely
underlined by the Gozo & Comino Local Plan, with minor variations,
both in grading and delineations.[36]
Given the geomorphology of Mgarr ix-Xini valley and its concomitant high
level of biodiversity, it is designated as a Category A valley by the
Local Plan,[37]
while the valley is considered as garigue.[38]
Moreover, Mgarr ix-Xini valley is considered as a watercourse,[39]
while the mouth of the valley is considered as an area prone to flooding.
In the Government
Gazette a number of features have been scheduled as Grade 1, 2, 3 or
Class B (Table 1 and Drawings 16_04_03_1 and 16_04_03_2).[40]
The archaeological importance of the area is also acknowledged by the
Local Plan which designates parts of Mgarr ix-Xini area as of
Archaeological Importance.[41]
The olive grove at the
northwestern part of the area known as Ta’ Blankas and part of the Mgarr
ix-Xini watercourse are designated as Scheduled Trees.[42]
The Ta` Blankas olive grove and the trees at Il-Misrah are designated
afforested areas in the Gozo & Comino Local Plan.[43]
Table 1:
Scheduled Features
Feature No.
Grade
1
1
2
2
3
1
4
2
5
1
6
1
7
1
8
1
9
1
10
1
11
1
12
3
13
Buffer Zone
14
1
15
3
Victorian property
markers
1
6.0
Mgarr Ix-Xini Regional
Park: The underlying philosophy
The philosophy underlying
the concept on which the Mgarr Ix-Xini Regional Park is grounded in quite
an innovative approach to protected area management in the Maltese
Islands, that is an inclusive, people-oriented approach.[44]
The initiative of Sannat and Xewkija Local Councils to develop this
regional park places the islands on the forefront of environmental
management and marks a significant threshold in sustainable socio-economic
planning in Gozo; both Local Councils conceived this regional park as a
Gozitan initiative for Gozo.
The global approach
towards protected area management has been radically changed from a
narrow, exclusive approach towards a broader, more inclusive attitude,
with the definition and objectives of protected areas becoming more
flexible. Where previously protected areas were designated such for their
conservation value, they are now shifting “towards protected area
networks as part of a landscape or bioregional approach to planning.”[45]
Conserving landscapes requires a regional approach because conserving
little pieces of land leads to fragmentation that is the key to failure.
It is to this effect that ecological networks are being globally set up in
order to maximise their protection success rating. The design of a
protected area should not be[46]
islands of biodiversity
in an otherwise degraded landscape. Under a bioregional approach to
conservation, protected areas are planned and managed as part of a mosaic
of land uses that together seeks to satisfy environmental and social
needs.
Since the Natura 2000
programme of the European Union has to be completed by 2004, the Malta
Environment and Planning Authority had recently established the National
Ecological Network of Special Areas of Conservation.[47]
However, Mgarr ix-Xini is conspicuously missing in the official Network,
even though the area has long been highlighted for its unique natural
features and had been scheduled for protection.[48]
It is significant to note
that six IUCN categories of Protected Areas are now in use – nature
reserves or wilderness areas, national parks, natural monuments, habitat
management areas, protected landscapes and managed resource protected
areas.[49]
The first three categories are the classical conservation areas protected
for their biodiversity value, while the last two categories extend their
sense of protection to cultural, aesthetical and recreational values
amongst other aims. Including other facets to protected areas than strict
conservation[50]
… may be seen as less
threatening because protection does not necessarily mean a complete block
on human activity. They are likely to lead to new management options in a
wide range of situations, and open up the possibility of innovative
partnerships between conservationists and other interest groups, such as …
the tourism industry and small-scale agriculture.
This approach is entirely grounded in the spirit of the European Landscape
Convention which incorporates the social and economic aspects into the
environmental fabric of landscape protection and management, the overall
aim being to promote Mgarr ix-Xini landscape.[51]
In line with national planning policy, compatible with international
practice, the proposed Mgarr ix-Xini Regional Park will serve as a
catalyst to further landscape appreciation. The planning application for
upgrading the boundary delineating same shall be endorsed by the Malta
Environment and Planning Authority in terms of Gozo & Comino Local Plan
Policy GZ-RECR-3.[52] This
planning application is required in order that the proposed area of the
regional park is managed and monitored by the respective Local Councils of
Sannat and Xewkija through ‘Mgarr ix-Xini Regional Park Environmental
Guides’. These guides will be vested with responsibilities to inform and
educate visitors to the area while monitoring and enforcing current
legislation. This ensures that Mgarr ix-Xini Regional Park is protected,
safeguarded, sus
[1]Laws of Malta.
Act No. XV of 1993.
[2] Ibid, Section 33(1)(a).
[3]
Bezzina, J., Forty Legends From Gozo, Victoria-Gozo, Gaulitana
No. 9, Second Edition, 1997, p.23.
[4]
Oil Exploration Directorate, Geological Map of the Maltese Islands: Gozo and
Comino, Office of
the Prime Minister, Valletta, Malta, 1993. Plotted at scale 1:25,000.
[5]
Lang, D.M., Soils of Malta and Gozo,
H.M.S.O., 1960. Plotted at scale 1:31,680.
[6]
Schembri, P.J., E. Lanfranco, P. Farrugia, S. Schembri and J. Sultana,
Localities with Conservation Value in the Maltese Islands,
Ministry of Education, 1987, p.18.
[7]These include Ras in Newwiela,
Ghar ix-Xih and the revenge of the Xewkin (cfr. Bezzina, pp.16 and 23;
Bezzina, J., Forty More Legends From Gozo, Victoria-Gozo,
Gaulitana No. 13, 1994, pp.28-9).
[8] D. Thompson (ed.), The Oxford Dictionary of
Current English,
Oxford University Press, Second Edition, 1993.
[9] Luginbühl, Y., ‘Landscapes,
projects for a pluralist Europe’, Naturopa No.86, 1998.
[10]J.E. Todd (ed.), Biography,
1982.
[11]
Council of Europe/UNEP/European Centre for Nature Conservation, The
Pan-European Biological and Landscape Diversity Strategy: a vision for
Europe’s natural
heritage, 1996,
p.24.
[12]Council of
Europe, CETS No. 176,
Florence, 20th October 2000.
www.coe.int
The
Landscape Convention was open for signature on 20th October
2000 and entered into force on 1st March 2004. Malta is one
of the Signatory States.
[13]Thus,
each member state of the Council of Europe is bound to
a.
to recognise
landscapes in law as an essential component of peoples surroundings,
an expression of the diversity of their shared cultural and natural
heritage, and a foundation of their identity;
b.
to establish and
implement landscape policies aimed at landscape protection, management
and planning through the adoption of the specific measures set out in
Article 6;
c.
to establish
procedures for the participation of the general public, local and
regional authorities, and other parties with an interest in the
definition and implementation of the landscape policies mentioned in
paragraph b above;
d.
to integrate
landscape into its regional and town planning policies and in its
cultural, environmental, agricultural, social and economic policies,
as well as in any other policies with possible direct or indirect
impact on landscape.
Moreover, they are
bound to
a. i. to
identify its own landscapes throughout its territory;
ii. to
analyse their characteristics and the forces and pressures
transforming them;
iii. to
take note of changes;
b. to assess the
landscapes thus identified, taking into account the particular values
assigned to them by the interested parties and the population
concerned.
Additionally, each
Party is bound to
to define landscape
quality objectives for the landscapes identified and assessed
Landscape protection means “actions to
conserve and maintain the significant or characteristic features of a
landscape, justified by its heritage value derived from its natural
configuration and/or from human activity”. Landscape management means
“action, from a perspective of sustainable development, to ensure the
regular upkeep of a landscape, so as to guide and harmonise changes
which are brought about by social, economic and environmental processes”
and landscape planning means “strong forward-looking action to enhance,
restore or create landscapes”.
[14]
Zoido Naranjo, F., ‘The Mediterranean Landscape Charter: An Idea that is
gaining ground’, Naturopa No. 86, 1998.
[15]
Council of Europe/UNEP/European Centre for Nature Conservation, The
Pan-European Biological and Landscape Diversity Strategy: a vision for
Europe’s natural
heritage, 1996,
p.28.
[16]Council of Europe/UNEP/European
Centre for Nature Conservation, The Pan-European Biological and
Landscape Diversity Strategy: a vision for Europe’s natural heritage,
1996, p.41.
Natural
habitats of conservation worth means those which
(Article 3)
(i) are in danger
of disappearance in their natural range; or
(ii) have a small
natural range following their regression or by reason of their
intrinsically restricted area; or
(iii)present outstanding
examples of typical characteristics of one or more of the five
following biogeographical regions: Alpine, Atlantic, Continental,
Macaronesian and Mediterranean
[18]
Directive 92/43/EEC, Article 3.
[19]Directive 92/43/EEC, Article 6
states that
3. Any plan or
project not directly connected with or necessary to the management of
the site but likely to have a significant effect thereon, either
individually or in combination with other plans or projects, shall be
subject to appropriate assessment of its implications for the site in
view of the site's conservation objectives. In the light of the
conclusions of the assessment of the implications for the site and
subject to the provisions of paragraph 4, the competent national
authorities shall agree to the plan or project only after having
ascertained that it will not adversely affect the integrity of the
site concerned and, if appropriate, after having obtained the opinion
of the general public.
4. If, in spite of a
negative assessment of the implications for the site and in the
absence of alternative solutions, a plan or project must nevertheless
be carried out for imperative reasons of overriding public interest,
including those of a social or economic nature, the Member State shall
take all compensatory measures necessary to ensure that the overall
coherence of Natura 2000 is protected. It shall inform the Commission
of the compensatory measures adopted.
Where the site
concerned hosts a priority natural habitat type and/or a priority
species, the only considerations which may be raised are those
relating to human health or public safety, to beneficial consequences
of primary importance for the environment or, further to an opinion
from the Commission, to other imperative reasons of overriding public
interest.
[21]Malta Environment and Planning
Authority, June 2002.
[22]Gozo & Comino Local Plan Map
13.1-B. This map notes that the indicated areas of high landscape value
may include disturbed ground which is envisaged to be restored through
the rehabilitation of damaged landscapes (see remark in legend of Map
13.1-B).
[23]
Ministry for Development of Infrastructure, Planning Services Division,
December 1990.
[24]
Ibid, para. 15.21, p. 91.
[25]
Policy AHF 7 states that
The removal of visual
intrusions in the landscape, the reinstatement and maintenance of
random stone boundary walls, and the establishment of rights of way
will be a condition of development permits.
Policy AHF 8 states
that
Further measures will
be developed to promote the reinstatement and maintenance of random
rubble walls throughout the countryside with priority given to walls
alongside rural roads, and for the removal of visual intrusions.
[26]Structure Plan for the
Maltese Islands,
para. 15.27, p. 92.
[27] Gozo
& Comino Local Plan, Map 10.3.3, thus subject to Policies GZ-RECR-1
and GZ-RECR-3. Policy GZ-RECR-1 states that
Proposals to
encourage informal rural recreation will be given favourable
consideration provided that … conditions are observed…
Policy REC 13
establishes a country parkway
From Mgarr eastwards
along the coast to Wardija off Qala, and west to Mgarr ix-Xini and
along Wied Hanzira.
Country parkways are (Structure
Plan for the Maltese Islands, Para. 13.30, p.71)
Public rights of way
and their immediate surroundings within which a variety of open air
recreational activities will be located. The parkways will link
tourism and/or recreation attractions by tracing routes through areas
that are of intrinsic natural and/or man made value.
Policy GZ-RECR-3 states
that
Proposals for
upgrading walkways … will be favourably considered by MEPA provided
that all the following criteria are observed:
(a) the proposal
shall include one or more whole circular routes wherever possible;
(b) a management
programme that clearly indicates responsibilities and
accountabilities, phasing of projects, implementation and maintenance
programmes, will be prepared and submitted together with the planning
application; and
(c) proposals for
the creation of new pedestrian routes (i.e. excluding vehicular
access) other than those indicated … will need to be strongly
justified. The creation of new pedestrian routes on garrigue or
boulder screes shall be prohibited.
[28]Structure Plan for the
Maltese Islands,
para. 13.31, p.71
[29]Gozo & Comino Local Plan
Map 13.8, thus
subject to Policy GZ-DARK-1 which states that
…Where relevant,
reflective signs shall be employed to guide driving at night whilst
the installation of lighting which is not related to aerial or
maritime navigation, shall be strongly discouraged.
[30]
Structure Plan Policies RCO 8 and 9.
[31]Gozo & Comino Local Plan
Map 10.3.3, thus
subject to Policy GZ-RLCN-5 which states that
The areas indicated …
are indicated as candidate sites for rehabilitation of damaged
landscapes. Rehabilitation can also be integrated with the provisions
of local plan policies GZ-RECR-1, 2 and 3.
[32]
Government Gazette, November 9, 2001, pp. 9110-9121.
[33]Structure Plan RCO 11 gives
guidelines for the designation of Sites of Scientific Importance and
Policy RCO 12 defines the protection ratings. Thus,
1.LEVEL 1 zones include
habitat types present only in small areas and/or sites with unique
species or features
2.LEVEL 2 zones will
include important habitat types present in relatively large areas
and/or sites with rare Species or features
3.LEVEL 3 zones will
include areas where control is necessary to preserve
habitats/species/features in adjacent sites
4.LEVEL 4 zones will
Include habitats and/or features of general interest
For Level 1
protection, the following applies (Structure Plan for the Maltese Islands, Explanatory
Memorandum, para.
15.35, p.101)
1.Human intervention
kept to the barest minimum
2.No physical
development
3.All efforts made to
protect the identified features of scientific interest
4.Management by the
competent Government agency in an appropriate manner
For Level 2
protection, the following applies (Structure Plan for the Maltese Islands, Explanatory
Memorandum, para.
15.38, p.102)
1.Human intervention
strictly controlled
2.Physical development
limited to the maintenance of already existing structures, and
construction of minor amenities designed to enhance the educational
and recreational use of the area (eg. narrow footpaths, nature trails,
small scale visitor centres). Any such developments to be carried out
with the least possible damage to the environment
3.Traditional
activities (eg. agriculture) can continue, unless in conflict with
other policies, but no new land diverted to these uses except for the
suitable re-establishment of abandoned fields for agriculture
For Level 3 protection,
the following applies (Planning Services Division, Structure Plan for
the Maltese Islands, Explanatory Memorandum, December 1990, para.
15.39, p.102)
1.No residential,
industrial, commercial, or tourism development
2.No infrastructure of
public utility works
3.Small scale physical
development an be considered providing the adjacent AEIs and SSIs are
protected, and this is demonstrated by a suitable environmental impact
assessment, and is consistent with other policies
[34]
Structure Plan for the Maltese Islands, Explanatory Memorandum,
para.15.34, p.101 which states
In designated Areas
of Ecological Importance (AEI) and Sites of Scientific Importance (SSI)
the following general protection will apply:
1.A general presumption
against development, including roads and public utility services, and
particularly on crests of ridges and the edges of coastal and inland
cliffs
2.A general presumption
against activities likely to be a fire risk to a significant wooden
area
3.
A general presumption against
development where noxious emissions are likely to create problems in
nearby AEI and SSI
4.The removal of
intrusive elements
5.The inclusion of
buffer zones to further their protection
[35]Structure Plan for the
Maltese Islands, Explanatory Memorandum,
para.15.37, p.102 which states
The W[orld]
C[onservation] U[nion] management classification system is
internationally accepted, and should be used for AEIs and SSIs…
[36]
These include that the Mgarr ix-Xini watercourse has been designated a
rating of Level 2 or higher of Ecological Importance, while the GHar ix-Xih
area is designated a Level 3 rating. The Ta` Blankas olive grove has
been assigned a rating of Level 2 or higher.
Gozo & Comino
Local Plan Map
13.1-A and Map 14.13-E. This makes the entire area subject to Policy
GZ-RLCN-1 which states that
The areas indicated …
shall be deemed to qualify for scheduling status according to the
provisions of Structure Plan policies RCO’s 1-5 and RCO’s 10-12 … the
designation covers areas of scientific importance and areas of
ecological importance…
Apart from the normal
restrictions on development in rural areas, there shall be a strong
presumption against the creation of new built structures (including
cultivation and animal husbandry related structures) in AHLVs…
Structure Plan Policies
RCO 1 to 5 aim at protecting scheduled areas from undue and incompatible
developments, while Policy RCO 10 gives guidelines for designations of
Areas of Ecological Importance and includes
Representative
examples of typical Maltese habitats such as garigue, maquis, valley
sides, watercourses…
[37]Gozo & Comino Local Plan
Map 13.2 and thus
subject to Policy GZ-RLCN-2 which states that
The valleys indicated
… shall be designated to qualify in terms of Structure Plan Policy RCO
29…
Category A Valleys
shall be fully subject to the provisions of Structure Plan policy RCO
29.
Structure Plan Policy
RCO 29 aims at preserving such valleys intact and “no new physical
development” allowed.
[38]
Gozo & Comino Local Plan Map 13.3, thus subject to Policies
GZ-RLCN-3 and 4 which state that
There shall be a
general presumption against any form of development…on garrigue…
and, that
There shall be a
general presumption against the passage of services through garrigue…
[39]Gozo & Comino Local Plan
Maps 8.3.1 and
13.1-A, thus subject to Policy GZ- RLCN-2, vide footnote 35.
[40]
Structure Plan Policy UCO 7 defines
Grade 1: Buildings of
outstanding architectural or historical interest that shall be
preserved in their entirety. Demolition or alterations, which impair
the setting or change the external or internal appearance, including
anything contained within the cartilage of the building, will not be
allowed. Any Interventions allowed must be directed to their
scientific restoration and rehabilitation. Internal structural
alterations will only be allowed in exceptional circumstances where
this is paramount for reasons of keeping the building in active use.
Grade 2: Buildings of
some architectural or historical interest or which contribute to the
visual Image of an Urban Conservation Area. Permission to demolish
such buildings will not normally be given. Alterations to the Interior
will be allowed it proposed to be carried out sensitively and causing
the least detriment to the character and architectural homogeneity of
the building.
Grade 3: Buildings
which have no historical Importance and are of relatively minor
architectural Interest. Demolition may be permitted provided the
replacement building is in harmony with its surroundings.
Structure Plan Policy
ARC 2 defines Class B sites as
Very important to be
preserved at all costs. All measures to be taken to preclude any
damage from immediate development.
[41]Gozo & Comino Local Plan
Map 14.13-E, thus
subject to Policies GZ-ARCO-1 and GZ-ARCO-2 which state that
The scheduled
archaeological sites and the identified candidate archaeological sites
in Gozo …shall continue to be protected according to Structure Plan
policies ARC 2 to ARC 4. Safeguarded areas are being indicated for
identified archaeological sites… Until such time that the relevant
area or site is scheduled, requests for development permission shall
be considered in the light of the proposed scheduling.
and, that
MEPA will give
favourable considerations to development which facilitates the
interpretation of an archaeological monument, provided that all
… conditions are observed…
Structure Plan Policy
ARC 2 states that the Malta Environment and Planning Authority will give
a rating to scheduled archaeological sites.
Structure Plan Policy
ARC 3 states that no development will be permitted in areas of
archaeological importance
…if there is an
overriding case for preservation. Where there is no overriding case
for preservation, development of such sites will no normally be
permitted until adequate opportunities have been provided for the
recording and, where desirable, the excavation of such sites.
[42]
Gozo & Comino Local Plan Map 11.2 and thus subject to Policy
GZ-AGRI-1 which states that
MEPA will safeguard
Areas of Agricultural Importance …
[43]
Gozo & Comino Local Plan Map 11.2. Policy GZ-RLCN-6 states that
The areas shown …
shall be considered as location areas for the siting of afforestation
projects according to the provisions of Structure Plan policy RCO 31
and subject to the findings of a study assessing the effect of such
afforestation on the environment of the area. Submissions for
development permission shall include details on the implementation of
the project as well as its management…
Structure Plan Policy
RCO 31 states that
Afforestation project
sites in non urban areas will make use only of indigenous and
archaeophytic … species…
[44] A
protected area is defined as (IUCN, CNPPA, WCMC, Guidelines for
Protected Area Management Categories, 1994)
An area of land
and/or sea especially dedicated to the protection and maintenance of
biological diversity, and of natural and associated cultural
resources, and managed through legal or other effective means.
[45]Dudley, N. and S. Stolton,
Protected Areas for the New Millenium, January 1998, p.1,
www.iucn.org
[46]Ibid, p.5.
[47] In
Gozo, eight sites were assigned a Special Area of Conservation status.
These are In-Nuffara, Il-Gebla tal-Halfa, Il-Gebla tac-Cawla and L-GHadira
ta’ Sarraflu of national importance; of international importance are
Ix-Xlendi-Wied tal-Kantra Area, Dwejra/Qawra area, GHajn Barrani Area
and Ir-Ramla Area. www.mepa.org.mt
[48] The
Mgarr ix-Xini/Wied Sabbara valley complex had been scheduled in 2001 (Government
Gazette, November 9, 2001, pp. 9110-9121).
[49]A Protected Landscape is
defined as a protected area managed mainly for landscape conservation
and recreation.
A Managed
Resource Protected Area is defined as a protected area managed mainly
for the sustainable use of natural ecosystems.
www.iucn.org
