New Xewkija project labelled ‘horrendous’
The “integration” of a house of historical value into the development of a four-floor block of flats in Xewkija has been described as an “excellent example of what should not be happening in Gozo” as the property stands to be engulfed. Yet again, the blanket applicability of the contentious Annex 2, which allows for taller buildings, was resulting in a “horrendous overdevelopment”, with no sensitivity towards the existing vernacular architecture, Din l-Art Ħelwa council member and restoration architect, Joanna Spiteri Staines, said. The proposal showed “complete lack of respect for the vernacular, no attempt to study the history of the building and total insensitivity in the architectural approach of additions”, she criticised. The application, PA 8409/20, at Triq l-Imġarr and Triq il-Bennejja, is seeking approval for internal and external alterations of the existing dwelling, consisting of limited demolition of its rooms on the ground and first floors. But it also proposes excavation and construction of basement and groundfloor garages, a domestic store and 32 apartments on four floors around it. Its plan is to “integrate” the existing façade on Triq il-Bennejja into the new...