New supermarket proposed in outside development zone in Zejtun

A completely new supermarket located outside development boundaries is being proposed along Tal-Barrani in Zejtun. 

The farm on which the development is set to take place is described as being "under used" in the application presented by architect Robert Musumeci on behalf of Glenn and Joseph Cassar. Musumeci is currently serving as government advisor on planning policies.

The development proposes the demolition of existing farm structures and cultivated land to make room for a two-storey supermarket, an underground store and a parking area.

The development covers a site area of 3,613 square metres, of which 1,925 square metres will be built up. It also envisions the demolition of 726 square metres of existing structures.

Lidl applies for extensions

In the meantime, Lidl supermarket has applied for an extension of the Safi and Xewkija supermarket, both of which are located outside development schemes. 

Architect Edwin Mintoff, on behalf of Lidl, presented the applications.

The Safi development envisions the development of a bakery while the Xewkija development envisions the development of a 220 square metre playing field.

The Safi supermarket, now set for an extension, was controversially approved before the 2008 general election and led to the resignation of one of MEPA's boards after the publication of a damning report by MEPA auditor Joe Falzon. The partially ODZ Xewkija supermarket was approved before the last general election despite protests by NGOs.