Sliema’s Villino Zammit to be turned into boutique hotel

The Planning Authority has approved plans to convert the scheduled Villino Zammit on Sliema’s High Street into a boutique hotel, including additional floors on part of the building. The proposal was originally recommended for refusal, amid objections from heritage groups and the Sliema local council, due to its height, use and aesthetics.  Concerns were also raised by objectors over the demolition of an old wall along St Nicholas Street, at the back of the site.  However, at a hearing last year, the majority of the PA board indicated they would approve the application after revised plans were submitted eliminating one of the proposed floors, as well as retaining the villa gardens.  The board gave the final go-ahead to the proposal at a hearing on Thursday despite objectors’ sustained opposition. Finalised feedback from the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage (SCH), requested by the board at a prior hearing, was not presented before the decision was made.  The heritage watchdog had previously warned that the development would affect the character of the Grade II scheduled building, which dates back to the late 19th century and was de-signed by acclaimed architect Francesco...