Architecture & Design

Architecture & Design | 19 it important to highlight the need for operators to remain agile and adaptable — in particular, regarding the respect shown to local communities and the environment during construction and development projects, and to reflect the growing desire for clean, safe and peaceful open spaces. It is also important to mention that considerable attention should be paid to adhering to on-site health and safety regulations, for the benefit of both workers and residents. Despite a number of challenges facing the industry in the coming years, including changing European directives and the Energy Performance Building Directive — in association with RES, EED and other related directives — all of which necessitate increased capital cost, it's my strong view that Malta's construction sector will remain resilient and a key driver of economic growth. By facing these challenges head on and remaining vigilant of new and existing regulations, we will not only continue to support this vital industry, but offer a more just and balanced result for developers, investors and the general public. THE PLANNING AND CONSTRUCTION SECTORS HAVE ATTRACTED SIGNIFICANT CRITICISM FROM ENVIRONMENTALISTS AND NGOS. DO YOU BELIEVE THERE IS A NEED FOR THE INDUSTRY TO BE MORE ACCOUNTABLE? I believe it is important for a clear road map to be set out, in order to support the construction sector's necessary move away from traditional practises. Unfortunately, while the majority of the industry is comprised of law-abiding and respectful actors, the irresponsible behaviour of a minority — those who have demonstrated a clear disregard for regulation — has brought the industry into disrepute. However, it should be noted that there are many in this sector who are working hard to improve standards, and that even the industry's own lobby is moving to enact auto-regulation of its members while taking clear action against those who do not abide by the prescribed regulatory framework. I would also like to take this opportunity to say that this government recognises the need for environmentalists and NGOs. They are an important voice in the continuing dialogue to mediate the needs of both communities and industry, and act as a vital watchdog outside of direct governmental control. We are committed to both enforcing standards and promoting increased awareness and education, while continuing to consult with all relevant stakeholders in pursuit of our future vision for the sector. ARE THERE ANY TRENDS YOU BELIEVE THE INDUSTRY SHOULD ADOPT IN PURSUIT OF SUSTAINABILITY, AND HOW WILL YOU ACT TO ENSURE THESE ARE IMPLEMENTED? In my view, one of the key objectives should be to promote greater interest and uptake of vocational subjects in our education system. The reality is that many vital skills in this regard have been lost over time, and, as such, have meant a certain degree of loss when considering skill-based and artistically-focused working practises. The skills and philosophies of Malta's master craftsmen, in particular their minimising of waste and prioritising of innovation, may — with a pro-active approach — be rekindled, and in the future, work to support greater employment within the green sector. The key point here is innovation, and promoting a genuine appetite for taking on vocational skills amongst the population's younger generation. In time, this will ensure a healthy influx of young professionals with new ideas, promoting sector-wide innovation and acting as a catalyst towards important new standards and a greater focus on environmentally-friendly industry practises. DO YOU FORESEE ANY STRUCTURAL OR FUNCTIONAL CHANGES IN THE PLANNING AUTHORITY (PA) AND BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION AUTHORITY (BCA)? This government recognises the need for change and is committed to acting in this regard, in particular through the planned introduction of a new set of National Building Codes — a framework that would work to consolidate regulatory and technical concerns, while based on a pragmatic approach that eschews acting in an overly-prescriptive manner. In particular, there will be an increased demand for greater professionalism, not simply with regard to construction sites per se, but also in terms of greater standards of excellence amongst Malta's valued contractors and other industry workers. This will be achieved through enhanced skill requirements for construction personnel and the licensing of contractors, something vital for the qualitative leap this government is working towards. In addition, there is a clear political commitment from the government to implement a long-term renovation strategy, that, in particular, provides for the decarbonisation of buildings from 2030–2050. It should be noted that the government is currently working to decarbonise its own portfolio of properties, and, as such, expects the private sector to follow suit in this regard. I can also state that the government is considering numerous proposals at the present time — including initiatives such as grants and other schemes — to support the aforementioned sector-wide aims for the future. The BCA is currently in a review stage in reference to its so-called 'Document F' — concerning the conservation of fuel, energy and natural resources — and its ties to the Energy Performance Certificate Service of Malta (EPC). The end result of this aims to, amongst others, introduce such measures as the planned Building Passport equivalent framework, which will provide each property with a 'log book' of works and alterations, as well as including an energy efficiency rating. We also plan to provide for increased comfort within our buildings through the implementation of SMART technologies, and greater reliance on alternative green energy sources. Lastly, our primary goal is to adopt a more modular approach in our building practises, seeking to prioritise durability, simplicity and efficiency. I believe it is important for a clear road map to be set out, in order to support the construction sector's necessary move away from traditional practises " "

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