Hili’s Comino hotel and bungalows project approved by PA

The Planning Authority has approved Hili Ventures’ controversial redevelopment plans for the Comino hotel and bungalows project today.

The approved proposal, put forward by HV Hospitality, includes the demolition of the existing hotel at San Niklaw Bay and bungalows at Santa Marija Bay, replacing them with a 140-bed hotel and 16 serviced bungalows. It is to be managed by the globally-acclaimed Six Senses brand.

This comes despite a petition with over 10,000 signatures against the development, supported by NGOs.

The plans also feature new amenities such as a spa, restaurants, and upgraded berthing facilities, all aimed at modernising the site while respecting its environmental context.

The updated project has been revised following concerns raised during earlier stages of the application process. Notably, the footprint was reduced and confined to previously developed land, and a total of five bungalows were removed from the original plans to reduce environmental and visual impact.

The Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) has stated that the revised proposal is unlikely to affect the integrity of the surrounding Natura 2000 sites, provided strict conditions are met. Similarly, the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage and other consulted entities expressed no objections to the project in its current form.

Crucially, the development will be bound by a public deed ensuring it remains a tourism accommodation site and cannot be sold off in parts for residential use.