Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1529221
6 maltatoday | WEDNESDAY • 13 NOVEMBER 2024 NEWS JAMES DEBONO jdebono@mediatoday.com.mt Developer set to receive permit for 109 flats on former Mellieha public land A case officer is recommending approval of 109 flats and 171 ga- rages on public land in Mellieha transferred by the government to the company last year. The company is partly owned by developer and Malta Develop- ers Association general secretary Paul Attard. The public open space was transferred by the Lands Au- thority to the company despite widespread opposition, including from the local council. A final decision on the planning application is set for 20 Novem- ber. The development is proposed on 4,349sq.m of garigue land fronting Triq is-Saghtar, Triq il-Migbha, and Wesghat in-Nar- cis, located within the Mellieha development zone. However, the land would have remained in its natural state if not transferred to T&S Holdings by the govern- ment. Planning approval would allow the construction of three sep- arate blocks, each with 23 resi- dential units on the ground, first, second, and third floors – total- ling 92 apartments – along with 17 penthouses and 171 basement garages. The government-owned land was transferred by tender to T&S Property Holdings in 2023 un- der a 50-year perpetual revisa- ble emphyteusis, with an annual payment of €380,000. The agree- ment allows the emphyteusis to be redeemed within the first 15 years after a revision in line with inflation. T&S Property Holdings had a right of first refusal because it already owned an adjacent plot. NGO il-Kollettiv has recently called on the Auditor General to investigate the valuation of the land in question. The case officer is recommend- ing approval, citing that the pro- posed development aligns with the local plan and a previously approved zoning application regarding height, design, and parking provisions. Additionally, 30% of the plot will be retained as public open space. More than 800 objections were filed against the proposed devel- opment. MSPCA unveils new website to boost animal adoptions and community support MSPCA, the Malta Society for the Protection and Care of Animals, has launched a newly revamped website, creating a novel, engaging platform that strengthens its mission of res- cuing, rehabilitating, and re- homing animals in need. Developed in collaboration with the creative marketing agency Concept Stadium, the updated website provides a streamlined experience for on- line donations, volunteer sig- nups, and pet adoptions, and offers potential adopters an inviting and easy-to-navigate platform. The Concept Stadium team lent its expertise to the project, delivering a visually compel- ling and functional platform that strategically enhances MSPCA's online presence. The Creative Marketing Agency's support has been central to creating a website that captures the compassion- ate essence of MSPCA's mis- sion while offering easy access to resources for both adopters and supporters. Through this supportive col- laboration, Concept Stadium has helped MSPCA optimise digital engagement, from pro- moting donation opportuni- ties to fostering community involvement in animal welfare initiatives. The MSPCA Team said: "The new website is a powerful tool that brings us closer to our community and makes it eas- ier for them to get involved. With the expertise and sup- port of Concept Stadium, we now have a platform that truly reflects our mission and val- ues. By providing a seamless, engaging experience for those looking to adopt, volunteer, or donate, we hope to expand our impact and give even more an- imals a second chance." The new platform offers de- tailed animal profiles com- plete with images, personality descriptions, and adoption requirements, encouraging stronger connections between prospective pet owners and animals in need. Donation options are now prominently featured across the website, making finan- cial support more accessible, and the newly added resourc- es section provides guidance on responsible pet ownership and animal welfare, fostering a well-informed community. The website's responsive design also ensures that it is accessible across all devices, supporting MSPCA's mission and enhancing engagement with audiences wherever they are. Concept Stadium's sup- port has been instrumental in transforming MSPCA's digital presence to meet the needs of a diverse audience. "Supporting MSPCA in their mission to rescue and re- habilitate animals has been an inspiring journey for our team," shared Jonathan Dalli, Co-Founder and CEO of Con- cept Stadium. "Through this supportive partnership, we hope to in- crease adoptions, raise aware- ness, and inspire individuals to support MSPCA's invaluable work." The new website has already generated significant engage- ment, underscoring MSPCA's dedication to animal welfare and its commitment to provid- ing the community with essen- tial resources. MSPCA is inviting the pub- lic to explore the platform, donate, adopt, or volunteer to help advance its mission. The website can be visited at www. maltaspca.org. MSPCA has launched a newly revamped website strengthening its mission of rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals in need