The fate of this modernist house in Balzan will be decided this week by the Planning Authority whether to demolish number 144, Triq il-Ferrovija l-Qadima and build a block of apartments or save and conserve the building.

Local photographer Daniel Cilia shared an extensive post on the building detailing the PA proposal as well as the architectural heritage that the house holds. “This Wednesday 28th April 2021 the Planning Authority (PA/06555/20) is going to decide whether to demolish this house called Walmarville , 144 Balzan, Triq il-Ferrovija l-Qadima, Ħal Balzan and construct one garage and four car spaces at basement level, one maisonette on the ground floor, three apartments from first till third-floor level (one apartment each floor) and a penthouse at penthouse level including a pool ... insomma a concrete boxes block!” he says.

For many Balzan residents, this modernist house is known as ‘Diamond House’ due to the balcony and railing pattern. Quoting local conservation organisation Din l-Art Helwa, Daniel shares: "Modernist architecture was introduced in Malta in the 1920s and established a new form of architectural style. Despite a call for an increase in awareness for protection, Walmarville and other modernist buildings are under threat by an increase in development and a lack of conservation.”

Daniel goes on to make an appeal to the PA to “save this building from destruction” noting the importance of modernist architecture on our islands. “Modernist architecture is as important as older architecture because it represents a style of building with elegant features and is part of the story of architecture in Malta and thus an integral part of Malta's history. Architecture is what makes Malta and Gozo, Malta and Gozo!” he continues pleading with authorities and Minister Herrera to “take any action to save it. After all, this house is an integral part of OUR Cultural Heritage! Walmarville should be saved for future generations.”