Update Tuesday 08/10/2024 at 08:30
316 Representations sent, more than 75% from local divers, but a sizeable amount also from non-local but frequently visiting divers.
Thanks for your support and interest in your own access to this diving site.
We saw some comments against boat operators and fishermen, which should not be the case. It is of our opinion that the location has to be used by multiple users, for different aims. Having a balance which can work, and projects which help all interested parties is what we should work on.
We have also been made aware that apart from divinginfo.mt other parties have asked or are in the process of holding/organising meetings with different decision makers/influencers and we wish good luck to all. A proper wide consultation exercise is our recommendation, together with alternative plans drawn up. The recommendation made is one we think could work, especially in a public-private partnership. We hope the interests of ALL divers and other site users are considered and that upgrading does go ahead in the near future following an agreed upon plan with all stakeholders.
Addon: We include below images of the plans presented to PA. You can click on the images to see a larger version. Zoom in for mobiles using your fingers. You can access these plans on the Planning Authority website at https://eapps.pa.org.mt/Case/CaseDetails?caseType=PA&casenumber=05472&caseYear=24 (E-ID login needed before). The case number is 05472 of 2024.
Original article
Diving Instructors recently shared on social media the photo of a notice showing that an application was filed with the Planning Authority for refurbishment works at Wied iż-Żurrieq, a diving site mostly known for being the only access from shore to the Um-el-Faroud wreck.
Divinginfo.mt had a look at the plans, which indicate a plan to excavate the underground lower parking currently used by divers, build boat storage space under street level and improve facilities including ticketing booths and bathrooms for users of the boats which take tourists on boat tours to the Blue Grotto nearby. Plans for the street level layout indicate less parking spaces for divers, swimmers and general public, as from the current 12 parking spots, only 6 are marked on the plans.
Furthermore, current issues experienced by divers and the public alike are not addressed, which include the current steep stairs-only accessibility to the sea. If investment is carried out at this site, this should be much smarter and not just benefit a very small subgroup of users.
Divers had in the past suggested for already committed public areas to be used for creating underground facilities including parking, public conveniences, boat storage and any other essential services. Shifting these underground would clear the way for a pedestrian zone in Wied iż-Żurrieq and regenerate the whole area into a much more visitor friendly and picturesque location, especially at sunsets.
More information about the proposed project as an alternative to the current PA application may be found in this document which gives an overview of the issues, proposals and potential benefits:
This suggested project has already been re-sent to the Public Works Department, Malta Tourism Authority and the respective Ministers by divinginfo.mt. We’re not expecting a nice email telling us “hey great idea, let’s do it!”. Which is where you as divers and other readers may assist.
Divers, swimmers, and other area users, have your say!
Divinginfo.mt doesn’t just limit itself to be an information website, but we also try to help you do something about issues, as we did with the Conservation Zones around wrecks issue on which your participation no doubt helped to get some of the areas protected better and safer.
We invite you to start off with submitting a representation to the Planning Authority by using the form below. This form has been created to allow you to show your disapproval to the proposed project at Wied iz-Zurrieq as per PA/05472/24. By filling out this form an email will be sent to representations@pa.org.mt which will indicate your wish to object to plans as proposed and invite authorities to reconsider with an all-encompassing alternative project which provides benefits to all the visitors at Wied iz-Zurrieq.