Gozo Tourism Association ‘flabbergasted’ by Xewkija Local Council’s objection to rural airfield

The Gozo Tourism Association (GTA) finds itself “truly flabbergasted” by the announcement of the Xewkija Local Council, that expressed its interest in objecting against the development of the rural airfield at Ta’ Lambert in Xewkija.

At this juncture, the GTA is asking why the local council is calling for the suspension of the airfield’s planning application.

As part of the public consultation process, the Gozo Regional Development Authority, had held a meeting on 16th May 2022 with the same local council to discuss the economic, social, and environmental impact of this airfield.

Furthermore, according to the association, during the consultation process, two meetings were also held for the general public, during which the numerous attendees had the opportunity to air their concerns, opinions and proposals.

“Therefore, there was ample time and occasion during which the Xewkija Local Council had the opportunity to vent its concerns and those of its residents,” GTA remarked.

The association expressed its belief that all Gozitans, “irrespective of their political creed”, support initiatives that enhance and augment the connectivity between Malta and Gozo.

“In this respect, all Gozitan politicians should back this alternative mode of inter-island connectivity. It cannot be us Gozitans who deprive our island and its inhabitants of benefitting from the facility of the airlink,” it continued.

Finally, GTA called on the political class “to end any political bickering” where air connectivity to the island region of Gozo is concerned.