Key Components of the Redevelopment:
Demolition of outdated structures:
Comino Hotel (San Niklaw Bay)
Bungalows (Santa Marija Bay)
- New infrastructure:
- A 140-bed hotel at San Niklaw Bay
- 16 individual serviced bungalows at Santa Marija Bay
- Amenities including a spa, restaurants, bars, pools, reservoirs, and improved berthing facilities
🌱 Sustainability & Regeneration:
The project embraces URBACT and EUI priorities, including:
- Land use efficiency: Entire development confined within the existing built envelope, eliminating encroachment on untouched land.
- Nature-based design:
- Low-rise, green-roofed buildings that follow natural land contours
- Creation of a construction-free coastal buffer zone
- Native plant landscaping to improve biodiversity and reduce visual impact
- Circular thinking: Restoration of existing heritage assets (e.g. the Santa Marija mortuary and WWII-era Nissen huts) contributes to resource efficiency and cultural value.
🏛️ Policy Alignment & EU Values:
- Aligned with Gozo and Comino Local Plan Policy GZ-Ghjn-8 (supporting sustainable facilities).
- Reinforces Malta’s commitments under Natura 2000, the EU Biodiversity Strategy, and Rural Conservation Area regulations.
- Supported by a €300,000 planning gain, earmarked for environmental improvement initiatives—reflecting the EUI focus on place-based investment and community benefit.