The Malta Environment & Planning Authority has published for public consultation a new policy document that aims to turn a 25,000 square metre site at Ta' Masrija in Mellieha into a quality residential area.

Ta' Masrija, situated along the Mellieha By-Pass, was designated as a site for garage businesses in the North West Local Plan published for public consultation in 2001. But submissions received from the local council and residents in the area have prompted MEPA to propose a new scheme.

The neighbourhood would consist of a mix of terraced houses, maisonettes and apartments and will come complete with a neighbourhood centre for local shops and offices, a kindergarten and underground communal car parks.

The planning proposal provides a total 74,000 square metres in residential floor space, 3,270 square metres for public amenity and play areas and nearly 1,000 square metres for retail and office floor space.

It is proposed that developers will be requested to make a one-time monetary contribution, shared in proportion to land-holdings, which would go towards the implementation of junction improvements in the area and the construction of pedestrian and public play areas.

Members of the public may view the 'Planning Policy for Ta' Masrija' consultation document at the MEPA offices in Floriana and Victoria, Gozo, at Mellieha Local Council and on the MEPA website www.mepa.org.mt. Copies of the proposal are also available from MEPA.

Submissions in writing are to be sent to:

The Director of Planning
Planning Policy for Ta' Masrija (Public Consultation)
Malta Environment & Planning Authority
St Francis Ravelin, Floriana.

The closing date for submissions is 6 August 2003.