MRU Reports Illegal Large Underground Garage In Natura 2000 Site

Wait 5 sec.

Malta Ranger Unit has raised concerns over what appears to be a large underground garage constructed within a protected Natura 2000 site in Siġġiewi.According to the organisation, Rangers noticed vehicles entering the site and seemingly going underground, prompting checks on Planning Authority maps.The Malta Ranger Unit said no permits appeared to have been issued for the development, despite construction allegedly starting around 2012 on land labelled as agricultural land.The alleged underground structure is estimated to measure around 40 metres by 10 metres and could potentially hold around a dozen cars.The case was reported to both the Planning Authority and the Environment and Resources Authority.According to the Rangers, authorities later confirmed that officers inspected the site, breaches were identified and the case had progressed to the enforcement stage.The organisation questioned how the alleged construction went unnoticed for years and urged authorities to take immediate action due to the ecological importance of the Natura 2000 area.Do you think enforcement on ODZ sites is strong enough?📸: Malta Ranger Unit•