The Planning Authority has issued for public consultation the Partial Local Plan Review of the North Harbours Local Plan (2006) for the Villa Rosa site in Paceville, marking a significant milestone in the regeneration and future development of one of Malta’s most strategically located coastal sites. This review reflects the evolving nature of development in the area and aligns with Government’s broader vision for higher-quality investment in tourism, stronger environmental safeguards, and a more open and publicly accessible green space network.
The development of the Villa Rosa Regeneration Area, as designated on policy Map PV4, is based on the core principle of integrated master planning. This approach ensures that development is coherent, integrated, and meets the high expectations for quality and environmental integrity.
The main objectives of this revised planning framework include the protection of key environmental and cultural assets, such as the Grade 1 scheduled Villa Rosa building and the Level 1 Harq Hammiem Cave, ensuring these features are preserved within the context of sensitive and sustainable development. Public access to the valley will be significantly enhanced, and development will be confined strictly within the established site boundaries to avoid impacts on nearby sensitive areas and recreational zones.
This proposed policy establishes clear limits on building heights and densities, and requires high-quality design, energy efficiency, water and waste management, and the integration of green and blue infrastructure. The inclusion of iconic tall buildings dedicated to up-market hotel uses—permitted through the application of the Height Limitation Adjustment Policy for Hotels (2014)—will contribute to Paceville’s distinctive skyline and support the site’s transformation from a location to a leading tourism destination.
A minimum of 5,100 square metres of public open space and 10,610 square metres of private open space is proposed to be integrated into the redevelopment scheme. The regeneration vision also includes infrastructure upgrades based on comprehensive traffic, environmental, and social impact assessments. Proposed public space areas such as Zone F will be landscaped and protected from commercialisation, preserving views and ensuring connectivitywith the rest of the site. Measures will be taken to ensure the conservation of existing gardens and ecologically sensitive areas, particularly through restoration efforts in Zones B and D.
The Planning Authority reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that the future of the Villa Rosa site is one that balances high-quality tourism development with strong environmental stewardship, public benefit, and heritage preservation.
The proposed maps, review policies and the submissions received during Phase 1 can be accessed on the Planning Authority’s website at www.pa.org.mt/consultation.
The Planning Authority invites the public to submit representations for the proposed policy changes. Submissions must be sent to the Authority not later than 11th June 2025.