I grew up in Sannat, where the plateau and Ta' Cenc cliffs and the surrounding countryside and paths have always been present in my life.

I have been trying to visualise what Ta' Cenc might look like in 10 years' time. Even just the thought of how the skyline might look like makes we wince.

There is no point in trying to discuss the economic advantages that the proposed development might bring to the village and to Gozo. Whatever advantages there might be, these are definitely offset by the loss of Ta Cenc as a historical and natural treasure for us and future generations.

I cannot, or rather I do not want to, imagine this part of the Gozitan countryside built up like any other Mediterranean resort, no matter how luxurious it might be. I had always taken it for granted that no one would ever dare touch this sacred piece of land.

I consider this development barbarian in principle and ravaging in magnitude and style. It is simply trying to encroach on land that has always been used for the good of many rather than in the interests of few. I have been trying hard not to think about the golf course and the effects on the island's water supply because that is a whole issue in itself.

Our politicians who claim to have the interest of the island at heart but are not opposing this development must either be on the developers' side or they must be asleep. What about the people who at some point must take a decision on the project because it is their job? It is indeed a huge decision, a huge responsibility that cannot be taken lightly. Their decision will not only change Sannat but all of Gozo forever.

Some might think that objecting to Ta' Cenc's development stems from a romantic notion of some residents living in a quaint, serene village who dream that time in Gozo must stand still. It is not the case. I believe that those who are opposing the project are those who see the real value of things, beyond the value of money.

I hope the developers' short-sightedness is corrected by those who have the power to do so!