Policy regulating cemeteries’ extension excludes constructing new ones

The aim of a new policy regulating the extension of existing cemeteries is intended to exclude the construction of new cemeteries.

Presently Malta lacks a specific policy, which regulates the construction of new cemeteries or extensions to existing cemeteries.  

The new planning policy also aims to ensure that people of different religious beliefs are treated equally and is set to explore different methods of burials including cremation.

Applications for such development are considered by MEPA on a case-by-case basis.  

For this reason, the Government requested MEPA to prepare a policy in this regard.
The policy objectives set up by the government will guide the Authority in the formulation of a new policy for cemeteries.
Raphael Axiak from MEPA's Planning Directorate chairs the new working committee drafting the new policy.
The committee includes Claudine Cardona from MEPA's Environment Protection Directorate, Clive Tonna and Johann Farrugia and Mario Cassar from the Environmental Health Directorate, Manuel Sapiano from the Malta Resources Authority Superintendent of Cultural Heritage Anthony Pace.

MEPA is presently assessing one major application for the construction of a new cemetery at Tal-Rmiedi on derelict agricultural land between Attard and Rabat. Luqa Development Limited, a company in which former Lorry Sant aide Piju Camilleri is a director, is proposing the development which includes a multi faith chapel and cremation facilities.

It is unclear whether this application will be processed under the new policy which is set to ban any new cemetery or whether it will be considered under the current rules.

The Nadur cemetery set in one of Gozo's most picturesque locations was the last major cemetery development approved by MEPA. The cemetery was approved in 2006 despite strong objections by the farming community, which feared the contamination of natural springs in the area.

In 2002 MEPA also refused a major cemetery development in an ODZ area between Birkirara and San Gwann.