More than 400 residents have objected to plans to demolish a farm in Ħal Farruġ, Luqa, and replace it with industrial storage and distribution units, despite the development being recommended for approval by the Planning Authority’s case officer.The proposed development, located opposite St Vincent de Paul and close to Wied il-Kbir, would see a farm occupying approximately 14,000 square metres of rural land transformed into a complex of warehouses, internal roads, parking facilities and rooftop solar panels.The site lies outside the development zone (ODZ), within the limits of a valley system protected by several planning policies.According to residents opposing the project, the application describes the farm as disused, despite claims that agricultural activity is still taking place on the site.Although the developers maintain that the built-up area would remain unchanged, objectors argue that much of the remaining land would be occupied by roads, parking spaces and other infrastructure.The proposal has also raised concerns over increased traffic, particularly heavy vehicles operating throughout the week, with residents warning that the surrounding road network is already under pressure.A similar application to convert the same farm into industrial warehouses and a car park was previously refused by the Planning Authority, with the decision subsequently upheld by the appeals tribunal.Opposition to the latest proposal has extended beyond residents, with 130 people signing a petition and objections also submitted by the Luqa and Qormi local councils, Moviment Graffitti, Din l-Art Ħelwa and Kamra tan-Nar San Bastjan.Questions have also been raised over the Environment and Resources Authority’s position, after ERA reportedly objected to the proposal on environmental grounds in 2023 before reversing its stance this year.Objectors claim that no relevant planning policies or regulations changed between the two assessments, while the Agriculture Advisory Committee was reportedly not consulted.Despite the objections and concerns over the development’s compatibility with ODZ planning policies, the Planning Authority’s case officer has recommended the application for approval.A final decision on the project is expected in December.•