A secluded Bidnija valley is seeing the development of a farm after the Planning Authority green lit the project, despite warnings issued by the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA).

The Sunday Times of Malta reported about the ongoing construction of the farm complex in Wied Tal-Hzejjen, following an anonymous tip. According to reports, this area is one of the last remaining untouched valley lands on the island, and a new sheep farm is being developed on the virgin land. But, according to farmers working the neighbouring lands, the structure “resembles more a luxury villa than a farm," the newspaper reports. 

The area was completely virgin until this development, having no access to electricity, drainage and water systems. The only other buildings in the vicinity are a few greenhouses.

Both ERA and the Superintendence for Cultural Heritage opposed the development, but the Planning Commission went ahead and approved the permit that was reportedly “in conformity with its rural policy.”

ERA also sounded the alarm on this project, raising concerns for resurfacing and asphalting of the nearby rural road, which could create a precedent for future developments of the same kind. Also objecting, the cultural watchdog has noted that the site is within Ghajn Tuffieha’s buffer zone (an area of ecological importance) and such a development will have a negative impact on the countryside in this area.

The architect of the development has stated that once the project is complete, it will fit with the site’s surroundings. But environmental experts have stated that while things are being done to minimise environmental impact (addition of rubble walls and scores of trees), the building is still an eye sore, being in the middle of nowhere, and will change the landscape of the area regardless.

What do you think of the ongoing project?