Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1546635
THE environment watchdog is objecting to the sanctioning of an existing lion enclosure and the expansion of a swimming pool outside the development zone in Marsaskala. The two planning applica- tions are for two adjacent sites located in the Wied iz-Ziju area close to the Marsaskala Family Park. The two applications, both submitted on 29 August 2026 and handled by Perit Roderick Camilleri, were presented by two different applicants. The first application (PA/00335/26) was filed by Joshua Grima for a site known as Lions Den off Triq iż-Żinżell and seeks to sanction an exist- ing lion enclosure, paved path- ways and the extension of a pre-1967 sheep pen. It also seeks a change of use of agricultural structures to a food store, cold store and an- cillary facilities serving the lion enclosure. In its environmental assess- ment, the Environment and Re- sources Authority objected to the proposal on environmental grounds. The assessment notes that historical survey sheets from 1968 show only one small structure on the site. According to the ERA, incre- mental and unpermitted con- struction over the years has re- sulted in significant uptake of virgin agricultural land and the introduction of additional built structures within the protected ODZ landscape. The authority considers that sanctioning the development would further formalise this transformation of the rural ar- ea. Swimming pool expansion Immediately adjacent, at Fjak Farm on Triq Wied iz-Ziju, a second application (PA/00215/26) seeks to sanc- tion an enlarged swimming pool, which exceeds previously approved dimensions, together with an expanded decking ar- ea, two pump rooms and a WC room. The application also propos- es the demolition of an older farm. In its assessment, the ERA de- scribed the proposal as objec- tionable from an environmen- tal perspective. The assessment traces the site's development which ex- panded through incremental approvals, starting with a water reservoir in 2001, a rabbit farm between 2003 and 2006 and subsequent permits for fodder store extensions, 164 solar pan- els, and a conversion to sheep farming. By 2021, a farmer's dwelling and swimming pool were approved, leading to cur- rent attempts to sanction an even larger pool and deck. The ERA which had already objected to the 2021 applica- tion, argues that successive alterations have gradually changed the rural character of the site, with the latest un- approved works resulting in further land uptake and urban sprawl. It concluded that the proposal would effectively formalise de- velopment within what should remain open agricultural fields. The environmental authority specifically noted the relation- ship between the two applica- tions. Aerial imagery confirms that the developments are lo- cated within the same proper- ty boundary, with the two sites appearing to be interconnect- ed. The ERA's assessment there- 14 maltatoday | SUNDAY • 20 SEPTEMBER 2026 NEWS COURT NOTICE The Registrar of Civil Courts and Tribunals informs that the Civil Court, First Hall ordered the following sales by auction: Date Time Judicial Sale No Place Items 07 th October, 2026 11.00am 4/26 – KRZ Degiovanni Joseph (ID 199868M) Vs Peshevski Jordan (ID 127928A) et Number 447, in Triq il-Kbira San Ġużepp, Santa Venera Two (2) two seater sofas and six (6) stools; Sofa, two (2) armchairs and a chair red in colour; Three (3) LCD television of the make Philips, Samsung and LG; LCD of the make Atron, LCD of the make Seiki and another LCD, Amplifier, Projector and Rolling Screen and Speakers of the make BAS; Coffee machine of the make (G), Coffee machine of the make Delonghi and Coffee Grinder of the make Pavone, Four (4) Wine Chillers, Dishwasher of the make omiwashing, Two (2) Fridge Display of the make COF and Microwave of the make Gala; Various Picture frames, house ornaments and chandeliers; Various copper kitchen ornaments; Various benches and tables of different sizes, small table and mirror; Various bottles of Wine and Alcohol; Various plates and pots; and Other various items as listed in the list of the Court Marschal; 14 th October, 2026 11.00am 32/11 – KRZ Cutajar Brian noe Vs Cutajar Salvatore sive Salvu (ID 375142M) Room number 78 nearby the Archives, level -1, Courts of Justice, Republic Street, Valletta 100 ordinary shares within the company S.C. & Company Limited C- 6050 21 st October, 2026 11.00am 6/26 – AZ KA Holdings Limited (C 56023) Vs Moderni Samantha (ID 357343A) et Number 447, in Triq il-Kbira San Ġużepp, Santa Venera Sofa blue in colour; LCD of the make VOX; Coffee table and table brown in colour; White two door cupboard; Several chairs; Blue Couch and another one white; Small round table; Black plastic table; White shelf; 2 folding chairs; Electronic Stimulation instrument; 2 Cavitation Slimming machine; Microwave of the make Torbow; Toaster of the make Silver Crest; Kettle of the make Sencor; Carpet Cleaner of the make CYCL MIC. 26 th October, 2026 11.00am 9/26 – EM Sodiam (Number of Registration 1999.156) Vs Melbourne Investments B.V (Number of Registration 31049204) Room number 78, nearby the Archives, Level -1, Courts of Justice, Republic Street, Belt Valletta 1500 shares valued at €1 every share. Further details can be obtained from the website: https://ecourts.gov.mt/onlineservices/JudicialSales The bidders taking part in the auction must present their identity card Gaetana Aquilina For the Registrar Civil Courts and Tribunals ERA objects to ODZ sanctioning of lion enclosure and pool in Marsaskala JAMES DEBONO jdebono@mediatoday.com.mt The first application was filed by Joshua Grima for a site known as Lions Den off Triq iz-Zinzell and seeks to sanction an existing lion enclosure, paved pathways and the extension of a pre-1967 sheep pen