Lija residents object to six-townhouse development on 17th century garden

More than 50 objections have already been submitted objecting to a planning application proposing the destruction of a 17th-century citrus grove to make way for six new townhouses.

The garden, which is surrounded by a 400-year-old, 3.5metre-high rubble garden wall, forms part of the grounds of an existing townhouse in Triq Annibale Preca in Lija.

The application also proposes alterations to the existing townhouse, eight basement garages and swimming pools.

The application foresees the excavation and removal of 19 citrus trees and one palm tree as well as flagstones, wellheads and other typical garden features.

The local plan protects “open space enclaves in the UCAs of Attard, Balzan, Birkirkara, Gharghur, Lija, Mosta, Naxxar and Santa Venera”. 

According to the local plan, the PA should not consider any development or redevelopment proposals that create “new independent residential/non-residential units, including garages for the parking of vehicles”.