VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – A UNESCO committee has found that Malta’s current planning policies do not adequately protect Valletta’s World Heritage status and urged the government to take immediate action.
Following a recent meeting, the United Nations body responsible for heritage protection cited “urban development in and around Valletta” as an ongoing concern. The committee stated that existing regulations “do not sufficiently safeguard” the city’s historical value.
UNESCO recommended Malta revise several key documents: the 2006 North Harbour Local Plan, the 2022 Grand Harbour Plan, and the policy regulating building heights.
Height restrictions should be introduced in and around Valletta, particularly north of the capital facing Manoel Island—an area noted for its “high development potential.” A comprehensive heritage impact assessment was also advised for Manoel Island’s 2021 master plan.
The Evans Building near Fort St Elmo, recently earmarked for a luxury tourism project, was flagged for needing an updated conservation plan. This follows local backlash over a 65-year concession granted to a private developer.
UNESCO acknowledged Malta’s recent efforts—including a draft management plan and impact assessments—but insisted “further improvements are needed,” especially in managing development and tourism.
An updated conservation report is due by December 2026 for review at UNESCO’s 49th session.
-Photo Malta Tourism Authority-
(ITALPRESS).
