PL says Qormi development plans are being fast-tracked for political reasons

A major development project in Qormi which is being proposed by a PN benefactor is being fast-tracked by Mepa for approval tomorrow, well before the general election, the Labour Party said today. Parky spokesman Roderick Galdes, who is also a Mepa board member and a Mepa employee in a statement referred  to the project proposed by construction magnate Żaren Vassallo to transform the former Lowenbrau brewery into a huge supermarket and reception halls, just a few metres away from another large-scale store. Mr Vassallo wants to  turn the existing factory in Qormi into a mixed use development with two function halls, a supermarket, a garden centre, an administrative office and surface parking. Mr Galdes said this case showed that Mepa did not treat all people in the same way and when the government wanted to help particular persons, it was ready to use all powers available to it. He said the proposed project would seen the Lowenbrau site changed from industrial to commercial use. The development did not meet requirements for on-site parking. Furthermore, Transport Malta had given its go-ahead without consulting anyone, despite existing traffic congestion, Mr Galdes said. Neither had...