The Planning Authority (PA) is proposing changes to the Development Notification Order to facilitate greening projects by Government agencies, Local Councils, and appointed entities. These amendments aim to support and expedite the creation or enhancement of public recreational spaces.

The proposed changes will allow greening projects within development zones on land designated for public recreational use, including schemed roads and public open spaces. Additionally, projects will be permitted on land designated for other uses in Local the Plans, as well as in areas outside development zones where public recreational use is specified.

The permissible works under these greening projects include the installation of play and fitness equipment, art installations, and demountable structures such as CCTV and lighting. Other interventions include the construction of shading devices and seating areas, the excavation of underground reservoirs for irrigation, and the replacement of existing paved surfaces with permeable materials or soft landscaping. The amendments also provide for tree planting, irrigation systems, and the removal of redundant infrastructure, with new facilities placed underground where possible.

To ensure appropriate oversight, prior approvals will be required from the Superintendent of Cultural Heritage for projects within Urban Conservation Areas and scheduled sites, from Transport Malta for works affecting schemed roads, and from the Environment and Resources Authority for interventions involving tree removal or planting in protected areas. Additionally, all projects under this class must receive approval from Project Green.

This new procedure will eliminate the regulatory framework subject to conditions. Instead, they will follow a simplified notification procedure. Project directly managed by Project Green are exempt from this procedure.

The proposed amendment can be accessed on the Planning Authority’s website at www.pa.org.mt/consultation.