They've dubbed it ‘Buggibafication’.
Last year, locals were up in arms about a towering development in the heart of Bugibba square which, they argued, is an eye sore to the surrounding area. And now, it seems that the bug is spreading, and this time, its on Malta’s sister isle.
This photo was posted to Facebook, featuring the same sort of structure in Duluri Street, in the seaside town of Marsalforn. Apart from the fact that it looks a little ridiculous when compared to the other dwellings in the surrounding area, it's also a major eye sore.
And, as we always do in these situations, locals (Maltese and Gozitans alike), have been commenting on the photo, mainly to express their disgust. “This is the second three or four storey extension in the same street,” said the person who posted the photo. Others have said that such buildings are spoiling the area, and have got nothing to do with the Gozitan landscape.
Dave Rolph via GOZONE / Facebook
Unfortunately, as many have noted, the only way for development to go on this island is up, and right now it’s going up, up and away. One Facebook user went all out saying, “That’s nothing! In Marsalforn there is another five-storey 'building' having the same facade width as the above and with a footprint of an equilateral triangle!! Can someone imagine that? Waiting to see where the stairs will be fitted!”
Another questioned whether these buildings are actually safe. “They look like they would drop at a slight earthquake vibration.” One commenter even blamed the proposed tunnel that will be built from Malta to Gozo! That's a bit of a stretch, but I see where she's going with this. Easier travel options to Gozo means more people visiting the island for short and long stays, which results in more accommodation needing to be built to cater for these trips.
Others befittingly questioned the size of the apartments being built on site, saying they “look like the mail pigeonholes,” with one also taking the mickey saying, “those are the diving boards for the new swimming pool, right?”
It’s sad to see that the island’s authenticity is being jeopardised by such buildings. What are your thoughts?