Moviment Harsien Hondoq have circulated a new petition, objecting against the proposed development at Hondoq ir-Rummien. The petition points out that any development there, will not only turn an open area, which was supposed to be a nature park, into an urban area, but will also ruin the quality of life of the villagers of Qala.

Qala already has the second highest rate of air pollution on the island, which is set to increase due to the constant noise, dust and vehicle emissions of the heavy vehicle traffic that will pass through the narrow streets of the village core, not only during the construction but also afterwards, during the operational phase of the project.

From the sociological point of view, the bay is an asset to invigorate our families and their family ties, when they meet to relax, discuss and dine there, in the evening breeze of the hot summer days.

Gozo cannot afford to turn Hondoq Ir-Rummien in an other urban area like Xlendi, Marsalforn and Imgarr, for it deprives people of places to relax in contact with nature and the natural environment, away  from the urban surroundings which is part of their lifestyle.

It will also put off tourists who come to the area specifically to enjoy Hondoq Bay which even the developers assessors admit will be negatively affected by the project.

The villagers have already expressed themselves on this point, with 85% voting against the project in a referendum. This is being ignored, and for this reason we turn to the EU to protect our right to a healthy environment.

Hondoq ir-Rummien should be kept Outside the Development Zone as it always was. In particular any development is in principle against Structure Plan Policy SET 11. There is no acceptable reason in terms of the said Structure Plan which justifies an exception to the said Structure Plan policy.

Hondoq ir-Rummien, a coastal area and bay in Qala Gozo, is one of the few remaining tracts of open countryside left in the Maltese Islands. The sea in this area boasts some of the cleanest, clearest water in all of Malta and Gozo, attracting locals and divers alike to spend time in this tranquil beauty spot.

It is now being threatened by the proposed development plan to build a five star hotel with 170 bedrooms, approximately 25 villas, 60 Self Catering Units, 200 Multi-Ownership Residences, 731 Underground parking spaces, with only 90 allowed for public use, 10 shops, 5 restaurants and a marina for 100 to 150 crafts.