The Nationalist Party has launched a public consultation on the planning appeals reform ahead of the upcoming parliamentary debate.The government’s public consultation closed a few days ago, while the Bill relating to the reform has already passed its First Reading in Parliament.The PN welcomed the reform, however, it noted that the proposals so far require further scrutiny to ensure that the reform is not weakened by loopholes.The reform seeks address the fact that developments under appeal are able to continue works, sometimes completing construction before a decision is made. This renders the appeal “pointless” because works carried out are irreversible.The PN is inviting all stakeholders – including environmental NGOs, local councils, professionals working in the sector, developers, industry representatives, residents and people with direct experience of the planning and appeals system – to share their analysis, concerns and proposals regarding the reform with the Opposition.The contributions will form part of the PN’s work ahead of the Second Reading, shaping its parliamentary position and any amendments that may be proposed during the legislative process.The Opposition said that it will pay particular attention to whether the proposed suspension of development while an appeal is pending would genuinely be automatic and effective.The PN will also closely examine any exception or loophole that could weaken the right of appeal, the proposed timeframes, the resources required by the Tribunal and the Court, and any unintended consequences that could affect citizens.It further urged the government not to proceed with the Bill’s Second Reading until it has published the full outcome of the public consultation.“Parliament should not be asked to debate a reform without first knowing the outcome of a consultation that the Government itself chose to undertake.”“The Partit Nazzjonalista believes in the principle that citizens should have an effective remedy when appealing a planning permit. We must now ensure that the legislation ultimately approved by Parliament gives practical effect to this principle, without loopholes, unjustified exceptions or rights that exist only on paper.”To submit comments or proposals, click here.What would you like to see included in the final reform?•