EPS Technical Appendices Vol 3

Transcription

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING STATEMENT
Demolition of all existing buildings forming part of St. George’s Bay Hotel and ancillary
facilities, Dolphin House, Moynihan House and Cresta Quay
Construction of parking facilities, hotels and ancillary facilities, commercial area multi
ownership holiday accommodation, bungalows
language school with accommodation and lagoon
Restoration of the Villa Rosa and upgrading of the facilities including
parking facility, kitchen and toilets all below existing site levels within
the Villa Rosa area to address catering facilities/wedding hall
Appendix Two
Section C
Environmental Survey Reports
21 July 2014
prepared by
ERSLI Consultants Limited
on behalf of
Garnet Investments Limited
Appendix Two A
Appendix Two B
Appendix Two C
Appendix Two D
Louis F Cassar
Land Use
Elisabeth Conrad
Landscape and Visual Assessment
Saviour Scerri
Geology, Geomorphology, Hydrogeology, Hydrology
Sandro Lanfranco & Louis F Cassar
Ecology (vegetation & habitats)
John J Borg
Vertebrates
Ella Samut-Tagliaferro
Daniel Borg et al (ASC)
Cultural Heritage
George Peplow
Air Quality
Mike Potts
Noise and Vibration
Report on the Vertebrate Fauna (Ecology study) in connection with an
EIA for the development of the area of Villa Rosa, Cresta Quay and
Dolphin House/Moynihan House, in St. George`s Bay, St. Julian`s.
Prepared by
John J. Borg
Independent Consultant
Logistic Support:
12, Sir Arthur Borton Street
Mosta, MST14
Malta
Telephone: (+356) 2143 1900
Fax: (+356) 21424 137
e-mail: [email protected]
Ecoserv Report Reference: 033-14
April 2014
Ecoserv Ltd
April 2014
Report on the vertebrate fauna in connection with an EIA for the
development of the area of Villa Rosa, Cresta Quay and Dolphin
House/Moynihan House, in St. George`s Bay, St. Julian`s.
CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION
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1.1 Terms of Reference
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1.2 Scope of this work
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1.3 Sphere of influence
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1.4 Competence of consultant
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2. STUDY METHODOLOGY
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2.1 Desk study
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2.2 Site visits
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3. STUDY AREA
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3.1 Wied Harq Hamiem (AREA 1)
3.2 The boundary of the Villa Rosa complex (AREA 2)
3.3 Dolphin House/Moynihan House
and the St. George`s Bay complex (AREA 3)
3.4 Cresta Quay (AREA 4)
5. ORNITHOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE
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5.1 Bird Migration
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5.2 Winter Visitors
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6. BREEDING BIRDS ACCOUNTS
Collared Dove
Cetti`s Warbler
Zitting Cisticola
Sardinian Warbler
Spanish Sparrow
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Streptopelia decaocto
Cettia cetti
Cisticola juncidis
Sylvia melanocephala
Passer hispaniolensis
7. ANNOTATED LIST OF BIRDS RECORDED IN THE AREA
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Section II
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8. Other Vertebrates: Mammals, Reptiles and Amphibians
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8.1 Introduction
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8.1a Mammals
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8.1b Herpetofauna
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9. METHODOLOGY
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9.1 Desk Study
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9.2 Field Work
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10. SPECIES ACCOUNT TO THE VERTEBRATE FAUNA
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Algerian Hedgehog
Pygmy White-toothed Shrew
Lesser Horse-shoe Bat
Maghrebian Bat
Soprano Pipistrelle
Kuhl’s Pipistrelle
Grey Long-eared Bat
Weasel
Wood Mouse
Brown Rat
Black Rat
Western House Mouse
Painted Frog
Moorish Geckoe
Turkish Geckoe
Chameleon
Maltese Wall Lizard
Ocellated Skink
Western Whip Snake
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Atelerix algirus
Suncus etruscus
Rhinolophus hipposideros
Myotis punicus
Pipistrellus pygmaeus
Pipistrellus kuhlii
Plecotus austriacus
Mustela nivalis
Apodemus sylvaticus
Rattus norvegicus
Rattus rattus
Mus domesticus
Discoglossus pictus
Tarentola mauretanica
Hemydactylus turcicus
Chamaleo chameleon
Podarcis filfolensis
Chalcides ocellatus
Hierophys viridiflavus
11 ASSESSMENTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND RISKS
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11.1 Light Pollution
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11.2 Noise pollution
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11.3 Dust and vibrations generated through construction works
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11.4 Loss of “green areas” or natural corridors
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12 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
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13. POLICY CONSIDERATIONS
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BIBLIOGRAPHY
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APPENDICES
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1. Maps of Study Areas
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2. Lists of species reported from the Study Area
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3. Summary of Impacts
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4. Sightings and distributions maps
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5. Photographs of the study areas
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TERMS OF REFERENCE
1.1 Terms of reference
1.1a Ecoserv Ltd (henceforth ‘Ecoserv’) commissioned the present author to prepare a
report in relation to Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) on the Vertebrate fauna in
relation to the an EIA for the development of the area of Villa Rosa, Cresta Quay and
Dolphin House/Moynihan House, in St. George`s Bay, St. Julians.
1.2 Scope of this work
The scope of this work is to present an up to date report on the vertebrate fauna of the
area under study and to present an assessment of impacts.
1.3 Sphere of influence
The area covered in this study comprises the inlet known as Harq Hammiem Valley and
adjacent areas around St. George`s Bay up to the coast line beyond the St. George`s Bay
Hotel (see Fig. 1).
Fig. 1. Study Area
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1.4 Competence of consultant
This report was prepared by John J. Borg:
x
Senior Curator and Manager of the National Museum of Natural History & Ghar Dalam
Cave and Museum;
x
Registered member of Society of Biology (London) 2013 -
x
Licensed Bird Ringer 1981 - ;
x
Researcher in the fields of Ornithology and Micro-mammals
x
Author of and co-author of books and scientific papers;
x
Participated in various E.I.A.s and technical reports related to Ornithology and other
vertebrates; and
x
Holds a number of posts in local and foreign Ornithological Societies and Scientific
Institutions.
2. STUDY METHODOLOGY
2.1 Desk Study:
2.1a1 This report is based on two different methodologies;
a) Library research
b) Site visits
2.1a2 Personal data (Ornithological and other vertebrates) has been collated by the
undersigned over a period of 35 years. This was supplemented by BirdLife Malta’s data bank
for other bird sightings. Published works dealing with the vertebrate fauna (other than
birds) of the area such as the Central Mediterranean Naturalist and other journals were
consulted.
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2.1b Site visits:
A series of site visits were conducted throughout January and April 2014.
x
Data compilation from field work was carried out as follows:
x
Visits were carried out early in the morning and/or late in the afternoon.
x
Each month was visited three times with a total of 12 site visits. In addition one late
evening visit was carried out in March and April to record flying bats.
x
The transect-line methodology was employed as well as random visits
x
The period under study (January – April) provides only a simple snap-shot of the true
situation. Winter and early spring are hardly ideal months to provide a clear image of
the area`s ecology. Wintering birds (January to March) were logged while very little bird
migration was registered up to the first 10 days of April.
3. STUDY AREA
The study area has been divided into four parts for ease of reference. The areas are:
Area 1. Wied Harq Hammiem / Harq Hammiem Valley
Area 2. The boundary of the Villa Rosa complex
Area 3. St. George`s Bay Hotel complex and surrounding grounds
Area 4. The Cresta Quay
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AREA 3
AREA 4
AREA 1
AREA 2
Fig. 2. The study area split into four sites for ease of reference.
5. ORNITHOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE
5.1 Bird migration
In the past when the area was very much less urbanised the area must have attracted its fair share of
migrant birds. Today, with such a high light intensity and noise generation, fewer numbers are attracted
to the site.
With the right weather conditions the area can witness hundreds of birds brought down by adverse
weather conditions. These birds seek refuge among the vegetation in the area as well as on the garrigue
slopes and other open areas. Their stay here is usually very short as the majority of the birds would be
disturbed by the constant human presence.
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5.2 Winter Visitors
During the winter months (November to March) the Area of Study hosts a small variety of avian species.
Flocks of Starlings Sturnus vulgaris roost in the large trees within the Villa Rosa complex. Small numbers
of Robins Erithacus rubecula spend the winter in the valley and surrounding grounds as do some species
of warblers such as Blackcaps Sylvia atricapilla and Common Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita. Single
Black Redstarts Phoenicurus ochrurus and Stonechats Saxicola torquata can be seen on the rocky slopes
as well as close to urbanised areas. White and Grey Wagtails Motacilla alba and M. cinerea are also
present in small numbers.
6 BREEDING BIRDS ACCOUNTS
6.1a. A recent coloniser of the Maltese Islands, the Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto has
spread considerably throughout all the three main islands. In areas where it is absent is due to
intense shooting. Once established the population of this small dove quickly increases and will
expand its territory in a relatively short time.
6.1b. The study area holds a breeding population of about 25-35 pairs. The majority (85%) breed
within the Villa Rosa boundary walls. Single pairs were noted nesting in the scattered trees,
including in the more urbanised sections. This population established itself here after 2008 as no
breeding records were reported for the study area by Raine et al (2009).
6.2a. The Cetti`s Warbler Cettia cetti is a fairly common, localised breeding resident. This
species established itself in Malta in the late 1960s, before which it was a vagrant species. In the
past 30 years, the spread of Cetti’s Warbler in Malta has been steady gaining foothold in many
areas throughout the islands, including on Gozo (Sultana et al. 2011).
6.2b. In the Breeding Bird Atlas 2008 (Raine et al 2009) the Cetti`s Warbler was not recorded as
breeding. One, possibly two singing males have been heard calling from the upper part of the
valley and from within the Villa Rosa grounds during the study period.
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6.3a. The Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis is Malta’s smallest breeding bird. It is very common,
widespread and largely sedentary. First breeding record in 1973 when soon after it spread
throughout the islands, arriving in Gozo two years later in 1975 (Sultana et al. 2011). This
species was not recorded breeding in the study area in 2008 (Raine et al. 2009).
6.3b. One singing male was heard singing in late March from the upper valley area. It is present
in good numbers in the nearby Pembroke ranges. It constructs its nest in tall grasses in open
ground as well as in valley bottoms. This is a polygamous species with a single male possessing
up to four different females at any one time.
6.4a. The Sardinian Warbler Sylvia melanocephala is a very common and widespread breeding
resident (Sultana et al 2011). It inhabits a wide range of habitats including maquis, garrigue,
woodland, farmland abandoned fields, as well as gardens as well as green areas in built up
areas.
6.4b The number of breeding pairs present in the study area in 2014 was of 8-12 breeding pairs
scattered all over the site. Four to six pairs were found breeding within the Villa Rosa boundary
walls.
6.5a The Spanish Sparrow Passer hispaniolensis is an abundant breeding resident and inhabits a
wide range of habitats (Sultana et al. 2011). Nests are built in all sorts of structures, trees and
buildings, as well as in cliffs and small islets. Breeding normally starts in February and last till
August, however in some years it starts earlier and prolongs till September and early October.
Three to six eggs are laid and incubation lasts about 14 days and the young leave the nest about
12 days later. In some years, some pairs may raise up to four broods.
6.5b The Spanish Sparrow is common throughout the study area and breeds in natural as well as
man-made cavities.
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7. ANNOTATED LIST OF BIRDS RECORDED IN THE AREA OF INFLUENCE
Family Phasianidae
The Common Quail Coturnix coturnix is common during the spring and autumn migration. Every year
some male birds can be heard calling from the area around the valley. Smaller numbers occur during the
autumn migration.
Family Phalacrocoracidae
The Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo is a regular and frequent winter visitor. Single birds have
been recorded swimming inside the bay during winter months.
Family Ardeidae
Herons and Egrets are regularly encountered along the rocky shoreline during the migration seasons.
Little Bitterns Ixobrychus minutus and Night Herons Nycticorax nycticorax have both been recorded
roosting in the trees at Wied Harq Hammiem. Squacco Herons Ardeola ralloides and Little Egrets Egretta
garzetta have been noted resting on the rocks along the coast.
Family Accipitiridae
Various species of raptors are recorded during the spring and autumn migration, while the majority of
them continue to pass overhead. During the winter months single Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus are
also regularly sighted in the area.
Family Rallidae
During winters with heavy rain-falls, the water which accumulates along the valley bed provides good
habitat for small rails such as Spotted Crake Porzana porzana, where they feed on the ground among
the thick vegetation.
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Family Charadriidae
Some members of this group are regularly recorded on the open grounds. The majority of species such
as Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos, Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola, Little Ringed Plover
Charadrius dubius and Turnstone Arenaria interpres frequent the rocky shore shoreline.
Family Laridae
Most gulls are common during the winter months, such as Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus
and Black-headed Gull Croicocephalus ridibundus. From November to March one can see over 300 birds
at any one time feeding offshore.
The only resident species is the Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis breeding mainly on Filfla and a few
scattered colonies in Malta and Gozo. Every day from November to July single to double figures can be
seen flying just offshore or inside the bay.
Family Columbidae
The Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur is the most commonly recorded migrant species in the area, single to
double figures are recorded annually.
Family Cuculidae
The Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus that has regularly been recorded from the area in the past thirty
years.
Family Strigidae
The most commonly encountered owl species in the study area is the small sized Scops Owl Otus scops.
This spring and autumn migrant sometimes arrive in good numbers, roosting in carob trees and other
thick vegetation.
Family Caprimulgidae
The European Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus is a common spring and autumn migrant, regularly
reported from the study area during both migrations.
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Family Apodidae
The Common Swift Apus apus and the Pallid Swift Apus pallidus are the two species frequently recorded
in the area both in spring and autumn as well as during the summer months. The Common Swift has
started breeding in the vicinity (St. Julian`s area) in the last few years. The larger Alpine Swit Apus melba
is less common with single figures recorded in most years.
Family Alcedinidae
Single Kingfishers Alcedo Atthis are seen along the rocky shoreline from July to November.
Family Meropidae
Bee-eaters Merops apiaster are recorded during both migrations. Single birds when not molested can be
seen perched on the electricity wires and on large trees throughout the whole area.
Family Upupidae
Hoopoes Upupa epops regularly seen from February to April and again but in smaller numbers from late
August to late September.
Family Picidae
The Wryneck Jynx torquilla is a common passage migrant and scarce winter visitor. Single birds are
annually recorded from within the valley during both migrations. Single birds occasionally overwintering.
Family Alaudidae
No less than thirteen species of Larks have been recorded in the Maltese Islands; the most common of
these are the Skylark Alauda arvensis and the Short-toed lark. Skylarks are recorded from the area
during the autumn migration. Prior to urbanisation the area supported high numbers of breeding Shorttoed Larks Calandrella brachydactyla but the birds have long since abandoned the site. The nearest
breeding location being the shooting ranges at Pembroke.
Family Hirundinidae
The swallow and martins are some of the most obvious migrant species and two of these, the Barn
Swallow Hirundo rustica and House Martin Delichon urbicum are also scarce breeders. The Sand Martin
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Riparia riparia is also common in both migrations. All three are commonly seen during the spring and
autumn migrations.
Family Motacillidae
The White Wagtail Motacilla alba is the most common visitor of the three species of wagtails known to
regularly visit the Maltese Islands. Large numbers overwinter in Malta with all the wintering population
flying to Valletta every evening to roost. Single birds are seen along the roads and paths. When water is
present inside the valley this attracts single Grey Wagtails Motacilla cinrea during the late autumn and
winter months.
Pipits which also form part of this family are also recorded in the area and the most common are,
Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis (autumn and winter), Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis (Spring and autumn) and
Tawny Pipit Anthus campestris (spring and autumn).
Family Prunellidae
The Dunnock Prunella modularis is the only species from this family to be recorded from the study area.
This is a common autumn migrant and winter visitor.
Family Turdidae
Around 30 species from this family are known to occur in the Maltese Islands. Some of which are
common visitors like the Robin Erithacus rubecula, Song Thrush Turdus philomelos, Stonechat Saxicola
torquata and others, while various species of Wheatears are less common. The Northern Wheatear
Oenanthe oenanthe and the Black-eared Wheatear Oenanthe hispanica are the more common. Some
species are recorded only during the migration seasons while others also spend the winter here.
Family Sylvidae
About forty species of warblers have been recorded from the Maltese Islands. The majority of these are
passage migrants but some also breed here. With ideal weather conditions the area attracts good
numbers of Garden Warbler Sylvia borin, Whitethroat Sylvia communis, Subalpine Warbler Sylvia
cantillans, Willow and Wood Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus and P. sibilatrix and many other species.
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Family Muscicapidae
Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca, Collared Flycatcher Ficedula albicollis and Spotted Flycatcher
Muscicapa striata are regularly recorded in the study area. The first two species frequent mainly the
high trees (Pines etc), but also in areas with lower trees. The Spotted FLycatcher is a common passage
migrant a breeding visitor in small numbers, mainly along the central and western side of Malta.
Family Oriolidae
The Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus is a common spring migrant with smaller numbers re-passing in
autumn. Single figures are annually recorded from the whole area.
Family Laniidae
The Woodchat Shrike Lanius senator, a common spring and autumn passage migrant and a scarce
breeder. Single birds are seen during the migration seasons. The Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio
occurs in much smaller numbers and single birds have been noted perched on Carobs and other large
shrubs.
Family Sturnidae
Flocks of Starlings Sturnus vulgaris occur each winter. They congregate in large numbers to roost on the
high Norfolk Island Pine Trees Araucaria heterophylla
Family Passeridae
Apart from the very common Spanish Sparrow, the Tree Sparrow Passer montanus has also been
recorded in single numbers but breeding could not be confirmed.
Family Fringillidae
The area is visited by several species of finches. The most notable being Linnet Carduelis cannabina,
Serin Serinus serinus and Greenfinch Carduelis chloris. The other species are recorded in smaller
numbers.
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Section II
8. VERTEBRATES OTHER THAN BIRDS - (MAMMALS, REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS)
8.1 Introduction
8.1a The Maltese Islands are host to just over twenty different species of terrestrial mammals. Fifty
percent of these are bats while the majority of the remaining species where introduced by man. Bats,
with their ability to fly have been present in the Maltese Islands since at least the late Pleistocene (c.a.
250,000 y.a.) as demonstrated by bone remains from Ghar Dalam and other quaternary sites (Storch
1970, Storch 1974). Since the late Pleistocene our terrestrial fauna has changed a lot, the elephants and
hippopotami that once roamed the Maltese islands have long become extinct. The same happened to
other species such as deer, bears, wolves and foxes. Apart from bats, the only remnants of the Ice Age
are the Weasel and a descendant of the Crocidura esue, the present day Sicilian Shrew Crocidura sicula
calypso. The Ice Age macro-fauna has been replaced by a micro-fauna which includes the following
species:
Algerian Hedgehog Atelerix algirus fallax, Etruscan Shrew Suncus etruscus etruscus Sicilian Shrew
Crocidura sicula calypso, Greater Horse-shoe Bat Rhinolophus ferrumequinum, Lesser Horse-shoe Bat R.
hipposideros minimus, Maghreb Bat Myotis punicus, Serotin Eptesicus serotinus, Noctule Nyctalus
noctula, Common Pipistrelle Pipistrellus pipistrellus, Soprano Pipistrelle Pipistrellus pygmaeus, Kuhl`s
Pipistrelle P. kuhlii, Savi`s Pipistrelle Hypsugo savi Grey Long-eared Bat Plecotus austriacus, Free-tailed
Bat Tadarida teniotis, and possibly Schreiber`s Bat Miniopterus schreibersii. Other species include the
Common Weasel Mustela nivalis, Wood Mouse Apodemus sylvaticus, Black Rat Rattus rattus, Brown
(Norwegian) Rat R. norvegicus Western House Mouse Mus domesticus and the Common Rabbit
Oryctolagus cuniculus.
8.1b The herpetofauna of the Maltese Islands although restricted it provides some of the most
interesting taxa from an evolutionary point of view. Nine species of reptiles (1 Lizard, 2 Geckoes, 1 Skink,
1 Chameleon and 4 snakes) are to be found in the Maltese islands and from these only one, the Maltese
Wall Lizard Podarcis filfolensis is endemic. The following species occur in the Maltese Islands:
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Maltese Wall Lizard Podarcis filfolensis
P.f.filfolensis – Filfla Island
P.f.kieselbachi – Selmunett (probably extinct)
P.f.maltensis – Malta, Gozo and possibly Comino
P.f.generalensis – Fungus Rock
P.f.laurentimuellerii – Linosa, Lampione and Pantelleria (Sicily)
Western Whipsnake Hierophis viridflavus, Algerian Whipsnake Coluber algirus, Rat Snake Zamenis situla,
Leopard Snake
Coluber leopardinus , Ocellated Skink Calchides ocellatus tiligugu, Mediterranean
Chameleon Chamaleo chameleon, Moorish Gecko Tarentola mauretanica and Turkish Gecko
Hemidactylus turcicus. The Painted Frog Discoglossus pictus is the only indigenous species of frog
present in the Maltese Islands.
9. METHODOLOGY
9.1 Desk Study
9.1a This report is mostly based on field observations, mainly on bats, carried out by the author
between 1987 and the present time. Winter and summer counts on the bats of the area have been
carried out over a twenty-five year period. Various historical and recent publications, as well as
ecological reports on the fauna of the Maltese Islands, some also including the Area of Influence
provided added information to the data collected in 2014 during the study period.
9.2 Field Work (Material and methods)
9.2a Two monthly visits have been carried out on in the months of January to April 2014 to record and
to re-confirm the presence any of the vertebrates, other than bats, observed in previous years. These
visits were a combination of four diurnal visits and four nocturnal making use of bat detector. During
these visits direct observations were made by means of walking up the valley (Area 1) from east (beach
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side) to west on the right hand side, cross the valley at the uppermost tip and repeat the walk from west
to east recording all sightings, including droppings etc.. Additionally, a total of 25 live traps (catch and
release) were used on the four night surveys. A bat detector was regularly used to identify presence and
abundance of nocturnal species such as bats and shrews.
Visits were carried out on:
January 7 and 21st, February 11 and 25th March 10 and 24th and April 12 and 21st.
x
Day visits: January 07th, February 11th, March 24th and April 12th.
x
Night visits: January 21st, February 25th, March 10th and April 21st.
x
During the night visits a total of 25 live (capture-release) traps where set in all the four
areas to record the presence of terrestrial non-flying micro-mammals.
x
A Bat Detector was used during all the night visits.
x
The study area was surveyed on foot following a series of pre-established transect lines.
10. SPECIES ACCOUNT TO THE VERTEBRATE FAUNA
Atelerix algirus (Lereboullet, 1842), Qanfud tal-Ferq, Algerian Hedgehog
Presence: The Algerian Hedgehog is present on Malta, Gozo and on Comino but is absent from all the
other smaller islands. Two colour morphs are recognised. One being a light coloured shade and the
other is of a darker colour. Both shades are frequently encountered but the lighter shade appears to
predominate.
Status: Frequent to common in most areas in Malta and Gozo, its status on Comino is not well known.
Healthy populations have been recorded in the Northwest part of Malta, especially between Manikata
and Rabat. A healthy population is known at Munxar in Gozo with up to twenty individuals frequently
counted near a rich food source. Actual numbers are unknown but it may be on the decline due to
increase in traffic along country lanes and the use of pesticides in agriculture.
Status in the study area: Area 1 supports a small number Hedgehogs. Previous observations by the
author in 1983-2013 also revealed small numbers. Not recorded from any of the other areas under
observation.
Conservation: The main threat still appears to be road kills but the increase in feral cat population is also
having a drastic effect on the hedgehog population. Light pollution and the depletion of natural habitat
may also be affecting hedgehog numbers.
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Suncus etruscus (Savi, 1822) Bugeddum Zghir, Pygmy White-toothed Shrew
Presence: The Pygmy White-toothed (Etruscan) Shrew is known only from mainland Malta. To date it
has not yet been recorded from any of the other islands.
Status: a localised but common species recorded in all types of habitat from rural to urban areas (Borg
2003).
Status in the Study Area – Single shrews have been reported taken by cats in the St.Julians and
Pembroke area (Borg 2003). A fresh corpse was found in a rock pool (drowned?) on the upper slopes of
Area 1. The retiring and nocturnal habits as well as their shyness from exploring live traps render this
species extremely difficult to assess and study.
Conservation Problems: Legally protected. Occasionally killed when mistaken for a mouse. Frequently
taken by cats especially during the warmer months. It is very sensitive to insecticides and herbicides.
Rhinolophus hipposideros (Bechstein, 1800), Rinolofu Zghir, Lesser Horseshoe Bat
Presence: A widespread bat recorded from Malta and Gozo, usually in single figures but a large winter
roost of around 50 individuals is known from one locality in Malta (Borg et al 1997). Its presence has
been reported by Adams (1870), Gulia (1890, 1914), Despott (1927), Lanza (1959) Van den Brink (1967),
Lanfranco (1969), Savona-Ventura (1984a, 1984b), Borg (1989), Borg et al (1990), Borg et al (1997).
Status: Frequent and widely distributed, but highly vulnerable to disturbance. Numbers are on the
decline due to disturbance, use of pesticides in agriculture and reduced hunting areas.
Status in the Study Area – Single individuals recorded feeding in the thick vegetation along the valley
(Area 1). No roosting bats have been encountered.
Conservation issues: Disturbance through light pollution, loss of roosting and feeding sites, use of
pesticides.
Myotis punicus (Felten, 1977), Farfett il-lejl Widnet il-Gurdien, Mediterranean Mouse-eared Bat
Presence: Found on Malta and Gozo, recent studies have shown that local inter-island movements
occur frequently. Reported by Lanza (1959), Van den Brink (1967) and Lanfranco (1969) as M.b.
oxygnathus (Monticelli); by Strelkov (1972) as M.b.omari Thomas; by Felten et al. (1977), SavonaVentura (1984a, 1984b), Borg (1987), Borg & Cachia-Zammit (1988, 1994), Zava & Borg (1989), Borg et
al (1990), Borg at al (1997), Borg (1998).
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Status: Uncommon and widely distributed, inter-island/colony movements regular. A declining species
with over 50% of the population lost in the last fifteen years.
Status in the Study Area – No roosts of the Mouse-eared Bat have been located in the area but single
bats have been observed/heard hunting in all locations within the Area of Influence except Area 4.
Conservation issues: Due to its large size and roosting habits, makes it particularly prone to attacks by
vandals. At least two large nurseries have been destroyed in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s. Human
disturbance in winter roosts, intense light pollution in feeding areas, illegal taking, target shooting and
pesticides are some of the causes contributing to the decline in numbers.
Pipistrellus pygamaeus (Schreber, 1774), Pipistrell, Soprano Pipistrelle
Presence: Present on Malta, Gozo and Comino, mainly in small colonies, but roosts/nurseries of 100+
encountered. Reported by Lanza (1959), Van den Brink (1967), Lanfranco (1969), Storch (1970), Borg
(1987), Borg et al (1990), Borg et al. (1997).
Status: Presently, the most numerous bat species on the islands. Vulnerable and declining in numbers.
Status in the Study Area - The Soprano Pipistrelle is the most common of all the seven species of bats
recorded in the area. It can be frequently observed flying along the narrow streets and along the valley
bed. Single bats seasonally roost in narrow cracks and crevices in a number of surrounding buildings. It
has been recorded present all year round.
Conservation issues: Highly vulnerable to disturbance, especially when encountered inside or around
human habitation, where roost entrances are frequently cemented. Used as target practice by bird
shooters. Pesticides are also responsible for decline in numbers. Intense light pollution disturbs feeding
behavior.
Pipistrellus kuhli (Kuhl, 1817), Pipistrell ta' Kuhl, Kuhl's Pipistrelle
Presence: Present on Malta, Gozo and on Comino. First mentioned by Gulia (1890) and by Lanfranco
(1969), both authors listed it as rare. Reported as frequent (Borg et al 1990, Borg et al 1997).
Status: More common than previously thought. Usually found feeding in the company of P. pipistrellus
Status in the Study Area: Kuhl’s Pipistrelle is slightly less common than the previous species. It frequents
the same habitats as P. pygmaeus. Single bats have been recorded in all months of the year.
Conservation issues: Same as Pipistrellus pygmaeus.
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Plecotus austriascus (Fischer, 1829), Farfett il-Lejl Widnejh Kbar, Grey Long-eared Bat
Presence: Present on Malta, Gozo and Comino. Reported by Adams (1970), Gulia (1890,1914), Lanza
(1959), Boffa (1966) and Van der Brink (1967). All listed it under Plecotus auritus. Reported also by Borg
(1987) Borg et al (1990), Borg et al (1997).
Status: Frequent and widely distributed, vulnerable to disturbance due to roosting habits.
Status in Study Area: No roosting sites of the Grey Long-eared Bat Plecotus austriacus have been
discovered in the study area but single bats have been heard and seen feeding among foliage of mature
trees along the valley.
Conservation issues: Intense light pollution in feeding areas, use of pesticides and human disturbance.
Undetermined Species: an undetermined species of bat was recorded in Area 1 on 25th February 2014,
whose flight and call resembled that of Eptesicus serotinus, a very rare migrant species to the Maltese
islands.
Mustela nivalis Linnaeus, 1766, Ballotra, Weasel
Presence: Although bone remains from the late Pleistocene have been unearthed from one locality it is
possible that the original stock of the present population was introduced by the Romans in 55B.C. (Borg
in prep). Found only on Malta, absent from Gozo and smaller islands.
Status: Rare, but well distributed.
Status in Study Area: During the past thirty years the Weasel has become very rare in the area due to
intense urbanization. The present author has seen two individuals; one in 1985 near the entrance to
Ghar Harq Hammiem and another in the same area during this study period on 11th February.
Conservation issues: Previously more common, declining in numbers, mainly due to loss of habitat
(urbanisation), increasing car traffic at nights and light pollution in feeding areas make it vulnerable and
detectable by prey.
Apodemus sylvaticus (Linnaeus, 1758), Gurdien tal-Kampanja, Wood Mouse
Presence: Recorded on Malta and Gozo, not recorded from Comino.
Status: Frequent in rural areas in Malta and Gozo.
Status in Study Area: This species has been recorded once in the area, a female was trapped on 25 th
February 2014 during this survey.
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Conservation issues: Increase in human activities in the area as well as the increase of the feral cat
population.
Rattus norvegicus (Berkenhout, 1769), Far tal-Kampanja, Brown Rat
Presence: Present on Malta, Gozo, Comino and Cominotto.
Status: Its status is considered as frequent but may be very common in some years where it may reach
pest proportions.
Status in Study Area: Common in fields and along rubble walls, sometimes also near food sources (litter
etc.) especially near Area 2 and 3.
Rattus rattus (Linnaeus, 1758), Far Iswed, Black Rat
Presence: Present on all the major islands and some of the smaller ones including Fungus Rock. A
species whose presence on the islands coincides with the arrival of the first settlers in 7,000 B.P. (Before
Present) as is shown by bone remains excavated from Neolithic sites.
Status: Common.
Status in Study Area: Frequent, especially near urban and sub-urban zones.
Mus domesticus Linnaeus 1758, Gurdien tal-Imramma, Western House Mouse
Presence: Arrived through man’s activities. No remains have been found in Pleistocene deposits. Bone
remains have been found along remains left by Neolithic Man c.a. 7,400 years ago.
Status: Widespread and very common.
Status in Study Area: Very common during the period April to October close to urban areas.
Discoglossus pictus Otth, 1837, Zring, Painted Frog
Status: Recorded on Malta, Gozo and Comino. Widespread and locally common especially near
reservoirs and water streams. Deep rock pools also host small populations. Present in small numbers in
and around water reservoirs. Present also in rock pools during winter.
Status in Study Area: Generally scarce but small numbers can be encountered in deep rock pools and
along valley bottoms. Present in good numbers in the three ponds within the Villa Rosa grounds.
Conservation: illegally taken by people.
Tarentola mauretanica (Linnaeus, 1758) Wizgha tal-Kampanja, Moorish Geckoe
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Status: Recorded from all the islands including some of the smaller islets.
Status in Study Area: Present in and around rubble walls and inside buildings in good numbers, at night
seen hunting near lamps affixed to buildings
Conservation: illegally killed by people and frequently taken by feral cats.
Hemidactylus turcicus (Linnaeus, 1758) Wizgha tad-Djar, Mediterranean House or Turkish Geckoe
Status: Recorded from all the islands including some of the smaller islets.
Status in Study Area: Present near habitations. Singles geckoes seen in all the study areas, close to used
as well as abandoned structures.
Conservation: illegally killed by people and frequently taken by feral cats.
Chamaeleo chamaeleon (Linnaeus, 1758) Kamalejont, Chameleon
Presence: The original stock was released in the neighborhood by priests in the 19th Century from where
they spread all over the island and with the aid of man it is now also present on Gozo and Comino.
Status: Widespread and locally common.
Status in Study Area: Regularly seen on dried branches as well as inside thick foliage.
Conservation: Occasionally taken as pets and predated by cats.
Podarcis filfolensis (Bedriaga, 1876) Gremxula ta’ Malta, Maltese Wall Lizard
Presence: An endemic species with four races present in the Maltese Islands. The sub-species
P.f.maltensis occurs on Malta, Gozo and Comino.
Status: Present on almost all the islands and islets. Common to very common in most areas, but
declining in others. The sub-species P.f. kieselbachi of Selmunett is probably extinct as it has not been
recorded in the last four years.
Status in Study Area: Absent from much of Area 1 and 2 but present in small numbers in Area 3 and 4.
Conservation: Loss of habitat and predation by cats.
Chalcides ocellatus Forsskål, 1775 Xahmet l-Art, Ocellated Skink
Status: Occurs on Malta, Gozo and Comino. Formerly more common but now rather scarce.
Status in Study Area: Recorded regularly in the 1980s and early 1990s but with very few sighting since
1997. One individual was recorded during this survey on 10th and 24th March close in Area 2.
Conservation: Loss of habitat and predation by cats.
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Hierophis viridiflavus (Lacépède, 1789) Serp Iswed, Western Whip Snake
Status: Common on all the main islands, including Comino.
Status in Study Area: Generally uncommon. Singles regularly encountered in the valley system.
Conservation: Loss of habitat.
Zamenis situala (Linnaeus, 1758) Lifgha, Cat Snake
Presence: Introduced accidentally by means of shipping activities.
Status: Known only from Malta.
Status in Study Area: One historical sighting (1977) and one recent sighting (April 2014) may have been
this species.
Conservation: Loss of habitat and predation by feral cats.
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11. ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND RISKS
11.1
Light Pollution:
11.1a Animals and plant forms are very much affected by lighting conditions and their behaviour
is regulated accordingly. Hence diurnal and nocturnal species do not normally interact. But the
increasing light pollution in urban as well as rural areas is having a dramatic effect on the flora
and fauna, exerting huge amounts of energy and rendering many species vulnerable to
predation.
11.1b Artificial lighting also disrupts the resting behaviour of birds (sleep) depriving them from
much needed sleep. Street lamps and spotlights affect the general behaviour of birds as well as
other taxa such as bats. It is not infrequent to hear small birds (Spanish Sparrow, Robin, Black
Redstart) singing in the middle of the night close to the light source.
11.2
Noise pollution
The much developed seafront and various entertainment outlets generate a lot of noise through
music, cars and others. Loud noises generated through car traffic, music and people all have
been found to negatively affect various groups of taxa especially birds and mammals. Loud
noises affect the sensitive hearing of both predators and prey.
11.3
Dust and vibrations generated through demolition and construction works
The demolition and construction phases will generate an increase in noise and dust pollution as
well as vibrations due to rock cutting etc. All these activities negatively affect the wildlife in the
area. Terrestrial species such as mammals and reptiles may abandon the area/s as although they
may re-colonise once works have been terminated. Actions to reduce dust particles
accumulating in the valley area should be addressed accordingly.
11.4
Loss of “green areas” or natural corridors
The proposed development will encroach and possibly over-run areas which to-date are still in a
“natural” state providing refuge to small numbers of vertebrate species (birds, reptiles and
micro-mammals). It is imperative that such natural corridors are maintained for the dispersal of
such taxa.
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12. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
12.1
It is imperative to monitor the behaviour of the vertebrate fauna under different parameters
such as lights, noise, climatic and lunar conditions.
12.2
To note changes in life patterns of the vertebrate fauna and to propose a course of action when
and where required.
12.3
To ensure no light spill-off onto the valley system
12.4
To minimise noise and vibrations during the demolition and construction phases of the project.
12.5
To ensure that natural corridors are maintained.
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13. POLICY CONSIDERATIONS
13.1 Local legislation and policies
MEPA scheduled Ħarq Ħammiem cave, and the full extent of the remnant valley system, as an
Area of Ecological Importance and Site of Scientific Importance as per Government Notice No.
370/08 in the Government Gazette dated 23 April 2008.
Legal Notice 68 of 1980 and subsequent amendments
Legal Notice 68 of 1980 and its amendments provide full protection to all breeding species in the
Maltese Islands.
13.2 International legislation
Since Malta`s accession into the European Union in May 2004 the EU legislation on Flora and Fauna
(Birds and Habitats directives) supersedes local legislation.
EU Birds Directive
A total of twenty-eight avain species recorded from the Aoi are Annex 1 species of the EU`s Birds
Directive. Only one species, the Short-toed Lark, breeds in the vicinity of the AoI (Pembroke).
International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) & BirdLife International (BLI) 2008
IUCN, the International Union for Conservation of Nature, helps the world find pragmatic solutions to
our most pressing environment and development challenges. It supports scientific research, manages
field projects all over the world and brings governments, non-government organizations, United Nations
agencies, companies and local communities together to develop and implement policy, laws and best
practice.
BirdLife International is the Red List Authority for birds for the IUCN Red List. IUCN Red List categories
include: Critically Endangered (facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild), Endangered
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(facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild), Vulnerable (facing a high risk of extinction in the wild),
Near Threatened (close to qualifying for Vulnerable) and Least Concern (species not qualifying for the
other categories, including widespread and abundant species). Species are assigned to categories using
criteria with quantitative thresholds for population size, population trend, range size and other
parameters.
13.3 Conservation & Legal aspects (Vertebrates other than birds)
All reptile species, the Painted Frog and most mammal species present in the Maltese Islands are
protected under the Flora, Fauna and Natural Habitats Protection Regulations, 2006 (LN 311/06) which
transposes the EU Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC). In fact, all the reptile and bat species are listed in
Annex IV of the Habitats Directive which lists ‘Animal and Plant species of Community Interest in need of
strict protection’.
The protection of such species is governed by Article 12 of the EU Habitats Directive which states the
following:
1. Member States shall take the requisite measures to establish a system of strict protection for the
animal species listed in Annex IV (a) in their natural range, prohibiting:
(a) All forms of deliberate capture or killing of specimens of these species in the wild;
(b) Deliberate disturbance of these species, particularly during the period of breeding, rearing,
hibernation and migration;
(c) Deliberate destruction or taking of eggs from the wild;
(d) Deterioration or destruction of breeding sites or resting places.
2. For these species, Member States shall prohibit the keeping, transport and sale or exchange, and
offering for sale or exchange, of specimens taken from the wild, except for those taken legally before
this Directive is implemented.
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3. The prohibition referred to in paragraph 1 (a) and (b) and paragraph 2 shall apply to all stages of life of
the animals to which this Article applies.
4. Member States shall establish a system to monitor the incidental capture and killing of the animal
species listed in Annex IV (a). In the light of the information gathered, Member States shall take further
research or conservation measures as required to ensure that incidental capture and killing does not
have a significant negative impact on the species concerned
Bat roosting sites are also protected under other international treaties:
* The 1979 Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern
Convention): most of the bat species recorded from the Maltese Islands are listed in Appendix II of this
convention, which recommends the conservation of habitats of the wild flora and fauna species listed in
Appendix II.
* The 1979 Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (Bonn Convention) The convention recommends “the maintenance of a network of habitats appropriately disposed in
relation to the migration routes”.
* EUROBATS: the UNEP agreement on the Conservation of Bats in Europe (1991). This agreement
recognizes the threat that there is to bats from habitat degradation and disturbance of roosting sites
and proposes the protection of those sites which are important form the conservation status, including
for shelter and protection, of bats. All bats species recorded in the Maltese Islands are listed in Annex 1
of this agreement
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Species
EPAXX/2001
Bern
EEC/92/43
X
App II
Annex IV
Suncus etruscus
X
App III
Annex III
Rhinolophus hipposideros
X
Annex II
App II
Annex II & IV
Ann I
Myotis punicus
X
Annex II
App II
Annex IV
Annex I
X
Annex II
App II
Annex IV
Annex I
Pipistrellus kuhlii
X
Annex II
App II
Annex IV
Annex I
X
Annex II
App II
Annex IV
Annex I
Atelerix algirus
Plecotus austriacus
Mustela nivalis
Oryctolagus cuniculus
Bonn
X
X
X
Table 1. Mammals and Maltese and International Legislation and Treatises
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Species
National Status
International Status
(IUCN)
Atelerix algirus
I
Lc
Suncus etruscus
V (?)
Lc
*Rhinolophus hipposideros
VU: A1c
VU: A2c
*Myotis punicus
VU: A1c
LR:1c
*Pipistrellus pygmaeus
VU: cd
LR:1c
*Pipistrellus kuhlii
CU: C1
LR:1c
*Plecotus austriacus
EN: B1a
LR:1c
Apodemus sylvaticus
I
Lc
Mustela nivalis
RR (?)
Lc
Discoglossus pictus
V, Rest (Med+MI)
Lc
Tarentola mauritanica
V
NA
Hemidactylus turcicus
V
NA
Chamaeleo chameleon
V, Rest (MI)
Rest (Med)
Chalcides ocellatus
V, Rest (Med)
NA
Hierophys viridflavus
V
NA
NA
NA
Table 2. National and International Status of mammals according to IUCN Criteria; * Chiroptera after Borg 2002,
other mammals after Lanfranco & Schembri (1989)
Legend to table II
From; Schembri & Sultana 1989 – Red Data Book for the Maltese Islands.
X
taxon is extinct from the Maltese islands
E
taxon is endangered locally
V
taxon is vulnerable locally
R
taxon is rare locally
RR
taxon is very rare locally
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I
taxon’s status in the Maltese Islands unknown
(?)
following any other symbol signifies uncertainty in the information given
Chiroptera
Borg 2002 – Bat Data Sheets for the Maltese islands (after IUCN)
EN
VU
taxon is Endangered,
taxon is Vulnerable,
Under Section V (the criteria for Critically Endangered, Endangered and Vulnerable) there is a hierarchical
alphanumeric numbering system of criteria and sub-criteria. These criteria and sub-criteria (all three
levels) form an integral part of the Red List assessment and all those that result in the assignment of a
threatened category must be specified after the Category. Under the criteria A to C and D under
Vulnerable, the first level of the hierarchy is indicated by the use of numbers (1-4) and if more than one is
met, they are separated by means of the '+' symbol. The second level is indicated by the use of the lowercase alphabet characters (a-e). These are listed without any punctuation. A third level of the hierarchy
under Criteria B and C involves the use of lower case roman numerals (i-v). These are placed in
parentheses (with no space between the preceding alphabet character and start of the parenthesis) and
separated by the use of commas if more than one is listed. Where more than one criterion is met, they
should be separated by semicolons.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Adams, A.L. 1870. Natural History and Archaeology of the Nile Valley and Malta. I-XVI, 1-295, Edmonston
& Douglas, Edinburgh.
Borg, J.J. 2013. Roost occupancy and diet of the Lesser horse-shoe bat Rhinolophus hipposideros
(Bechstein, 1800) in Malta (Mammalia, Chiroptera Rhinolophidae) N.S. 37 (2): 573-579
Borg. J. 1988. Report on the Bat population of the Maltese Islands. - p. 207-209. In: Stebbings, R.E./IUCN.
The Conservation of European Bats. Christopher Helm, London.
Borg, J.J. 1998. The Maghrebian Bat Myotis blythii punicus Felten,1977 in Malta. Notes on Status,
Morphometrics, Movements, and Diet (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae). Naturalista Siciliano
S.IV,XXII (3-4) : 365-374.
Borg, J.J. 2002. Bat Data Sheets for the Maltese Islands. Environment Protection Directorate/MEPA.
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Borg, J.J. 2003-2004. Notes on the status, distribution and morphology of the pygmy white-toothed
shrew Suncus etruscus (Savi, 1822) in Malta (Mammalia, Insectivora, Soricidae). Cent. Med. Nat.
Vol.4 (1): 61-64.
Borg, J., M. Fiore, C. Violani & B. Zava. 1990. Observations on the Chiropterofauna of Gozo, Maltese
Islands. Boll. Mus. Reg. Sci. Nat. Torino, 8 (2): 501-515.
Borg, J.J. & J. Sultana. 2003. Prensce of the Black Rat Rattus rattus on Fungus Rock (Maltese Islands).
Central Mediterranean Naturalist 4(1): 105-106.
Borg. J.J. & Sultana, J. 2004. Important Bird Areas of EU importance in Malta. BirdLife Malta,
RSPB, UK.
Borg, J.J., C. Violani & B. Zava. 1997. The Bat Fauna of the Maltese Islands. Myotis (35): 49-65.
Felten, H., F. Spitzenberger & G. Storch. 1977. Zur Kleinsaugerfauna West Anatoliens. Tiel IIIa –
Senckenbergiana boll. 58 (1-2): 1-44.
Gulia, G. 1858-1859. Repertorio di Storia Naturale. Malta. Anglo-Maltese.
Gulia, G. 1890. Elenco dei Mammiferi Maltesi in. il Naturalista Maltese. 1(2): 2-3.
Gulia, G. 1914. Uno Sguardo alla Zoologia delle Isole Maltesi. IX Congress International di Zool.
tenu a Monaco du 25-30 Mars 1913. :545-555.
Lanfranco, G. 1969. “Vagrant Hedgehog in Malta” Sunday Times of Malta 16th Feb.1969.
Lanfranco, G. 1969. Maltese Mammals (Central Mediterranean) Malta, 28pp.+ plts. I-VIII.
Lanfranco, G.G. & P.J. Schembri. 1989. Vertebrates other than birds. In (Schembri P.J. & J.Sultana
Eds.) Red Data Book for the Maltese Islands. Dept of Information, Malta. :129-137.
Lanza, B. in. Toschi, A, & Lanza, B. 1959. Fauna d'Italia Vol IV, Mammalia Generalita,Insectivora,
Chiroptera; Bologna: Ed. Calderini.
Malec, F. & Storch, G. 1972. Der Wanderigel, Erinaceus algirus Duvernoy & Lereboullet, 1842, von Malta
und seine Beziehungen zum nordafrikanischen Herkunftsgebiet. Saugetierkundliche
Mitteilungen 20 (1-2).
Mitchell-Jones, A.J., Amori, G., Bogdanowicz, W., Krystufek, B., Reijnders, P.J.H., Spitzenberger, F.,
Stubbe, M., Thissen, J.B.M., Vohralik, V. & Zima, J. 1999. Atlas of European Mammals. The
Academic Press, London.
MØller, A.P., Fiedler, W. & Berthold, P. 2006. Birds and Climate Change. Elsevier Ltd/Academic Press.
Raine, A., Sultana, J. & Gillings, S. 2009. Malta Breeding Bird Atlas 2008. BirdLife Malta, Malta.
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Raine, H., J.J. Borg, A. Raine, S. Bairner, M. Borg-Cardona. 2007. Light Pollution and its effects on
Yelkouan Shearwaters in Malta: causes and effects. BirdLife Malta.
Schembri, P.J., Lanfranco, E., Farrugia, A., Schembri, S. & Sultana, J. 1987. Localities with
Conservation Value in the Maltese Islands. Pub. Env Div. Ministry of Education.
Storch, G. 1970. Holozane kleinsaugerfunde aus der Ghar Dalam-Hohle, Malta (Mammalia,
Insectivora, Chiroptera, Rodentia). Senckenbergiana boil. Frankfurt a. M., 51: 135-145.
Storch, G. 1974. Quartare-Fledermaus – Faunen von der insel Malta. Senckenbergiana lethaea
55 (1-5): 407-434.
Sultana, J., Borg, J.J. Gauci, C. & Falzon, V. 2011. The Breeding Birds of Malta. BDL/BLM
Sultana, J. 2001. L-Ghasafar ta’ Malta. Pubblikazzjoni Indipendenza.
Sultana, J. & Borg, J.J. 2002. Coastal Zone Management Subject Plan – Ornithology Pp46. Malta
Environment and Planning Authority.
Sultana, J. & Gauci, C. 1982. A New Guide to the Birds of Malta. The Ornithological Society,
Valletta.
Appendix 1 – Maps of Study Areas
Harq Hamiem Valley system
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Cresta Quay area
Dolphin and Moynihan Houses
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Villa Rosa Boundary
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Appendix 2 – List of Avian Species reported from the study area
Birds Recorded from the Area of Influence
Ixobrychus minutus
Nycticorax nycticorax
Ardeola ralloides
Egretta garzetta
Ardea cinerea
Ardea purpurea
Plegadis falcinellus
Pernis apivorus
Circus aeruginosus
Circus cyaneus
Circus macrourus
Circus pygargus
Accipiter nisus
Pandion haliaetus
Falco naumanni
Falco tinnunculus
Falco vespertinus
Falco subbuteo
Coturnix coturnix
Rallus aquaticus
Porzana porzana
Porzana parva
Porzana pusilla
Gallinula chloropus
Scolopax rusticola
Charadrius dubius
Actitis hypoleucos
Arenaria interpres
Larus michahellis
Streptopelia turtur
Streptopelia decaocto
Cuculus canorus
Otus scops
Asio flammaeus
Caprimulgus europaeus
Tachymarptis melba
Apus apus
Birds
Directive
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
37
Spring
Migrant
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Autumn
Migrant
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Breeding
Species
X
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Apus pallidus
Alcedo atthis
Merops apiaster
Coracias garrulus
Upupa epops
Jynx torquilla
Calandrella brachydactyla
Lulula arborea
Alauda arvensis
Riparia riparia
Hirundo rustica
Hirundo daurica
Delichon urbicum
Anthus campestris
Anthus trivialis
Anthus pratensis
Anthus cervinus
Motacilla flava
Motacilla cinerea
Motacilla alba
Prunella modularis
Erithacus rubecula
Luscinia megarhynchos
Phoenicurus ochruros
Phoenicurus phoenicurus
Saxicola rubetra
Saxicola torquata
Oenanthe oenanthe
Oenanthe hispanica
Turdus merula
Turdus philomelos
Cettia cetti
Cisticola juncidis
Acrocephalus schoenobaenus
Acrocephalus scirpaceus
Acrocephalus arundinaceus
Hippolais icterina
Sylvia cantillans
Sylvia melanocephala
Sylvia communis
Sylvia borin
Sylvia atricapilla
Phylloscopus sibilatrix
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
(X)
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
38
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Ecoserv Ltd
April 2014
Phylloscopus trochillus
Phylloscopus collybita
Phylloscopus bonelli
Regulus regulus
Regulus ignicapillus
Muscicapa striata
Ficedula hypoleuca
Ficedula albicollis
Oriolus oriolus
Lanius collurio
Lanius senator
Sturnus vulgaris
Passer hispaniloensis
Fringilla coelebs
Serinus serinus
Carduelis chloris
Carduelis cannabina
Annex 1 B.D.
Annex 1 B.D.
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
(X)
X
X
X
X
X
39
X
X
X
X
Ecoserv Ltd
April 2014
Jan
SPECIES
Feb
Mar
Apr
7th
21st
11th
25th
10th
24th
Atelerix algirus fallax
X
X
X
1
X
2
Suncus etruscus
X
X
1 dead
X
X
X
R. hipposideros minimus
X
X
X
X
1
hunting
2 hunting
Myotis punicus
X
X
X
X
2
hunting
X
X
2
X
1
8
13
P. pipistrellus
X
1
3
1
3
4
P. kuhlii
1
X
4
5
5
7
Plecotus austriacus
X
X
X
1
1
1
Unidentified species
X
X
X
1
X
X
Mustela nivalis
X
X
1
X
X
X
Apodemus sylvaticus
X
X
X
1 trap
X
X
Rattus rattus
1 skull
X
X
1 trap
X
X
R. norvegicus
X
X
1
droppings
X
1 in
valley
X
Mus domesticus
X
droppings
X
3 traps
6 traps
14 traps
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Tarentola mauretanica
X
X
X
Present
Hemidactylus turcicus
X
X
X
Chamaeleo chamaeleon
X
X
Lacertidae
X
Scincidae
Chalcides ocellatus
12th
21st
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
Present
X
Present
Present
Present
Present
X
1
1
X
X
X
X
1
X
X
X
X
X
1
1
Hierophys viridiflavus
X
X
X
1
X
1
Elaphe situala
X
X
X
X
X
1
Chiroptera
Mammalia
Insectivora
Rodentia
Carnivora
Amphibia
Anura
Discoglossus pictus
Gekkonidae
Reptilia
Chamaeleontidae
Colubridae
40
Ecoserv Ltd
April 2014
Appendix 3 – Summary of Impacts
Summary of Impacts
Impact type and Source
Impact type
Light and Sound Pollution, loss of “green” areas
Specific intervention
leading to impact
Un-shaded white shades spilling over into the valley system.
Development of yet undisturbed areas around existing structures
Project phase
Construction/Operations (one table per phase) Throughout and beyond project
Impact Receptor
Receptor type
Sensitivity and resilience
toward impact
Effect and Scale of Impact
Direct/Indirect/Cumulative
Direct as they affect the natural behaviour of the terrestrial fauna.
Beneficial/Adverse
Adverse
Severity
Medium to high
Physical/geographic extent
Highest risk in the vicinity of the valley system
Short/Medium/Long
Term
Long term
Temporary/Permanent
Permanent if issue is not addressed accordingly
if temporary indicate duration
Reversible/Irreversible
if reversible indicate ease of
reversibility
Minimise artificial lighting and use of proper (shaded) lamps
Probability – Significance – Mitigation – Residual Impacts – Other Requirements
Probability of impact occurring Inevitable. Considering the fact that much of the area in question is already
developed, proper attention towards the protection of the fauna present at in
(inevitable, likely, remote
and around the Harq Hammiem valley system should be prioritised.
uncertain)
Significance
Overall Impact
Medium to high
Proposed
Mitigation Measures
Use of proper lighting systems
Significance
Residual Impact
Desertion from area by terrestrial faunal species
Monitoring
Monitoring programme to be formulated, setup and implemented
41
Light spillage
2
3
4
8
Medium to
high
Medium to high
Medium to
high
Adverse
Adverse
Indirect
Direct
Abandonment by Possible
certain species
desertion
especially bats
from the
Population
isolation
Receptor
type
Sensitivity and
resilience
toward impact
6
Direct
Indirect
Cumulative
7
Beneficial
Adverse
Severity
Physical
geographic
extent of
impact
10
11
Short
medium
long
term
Temporary
Permanent
Effect and Scale
42
9
Primarily the
valley system
Most areas
especially close
to the valley
system
Most likely to
occur in areas
3 and 4
5
Long term
Short to long
term
Long term
area.
Impact type
1
Permanent
Permanent
Permanent
Impact receptor
Non reversible
Irreversible
12
Reversible
Irreversible
15
Avoid light
spillage
Overall impact
significance
14
high
Probability of
impact occurring
13
Proposed
mitigation
measures
16
Residual impact
significance
Other requirements
17
Report on the vertebrate fauna in connection with an EIA for the development of the area of Villa Rosa, Cresta
Quay and Dolphin House/Moynihan House, in St. George`s Bay, St. Julian`s.
Environmental aspect (e.g. ecology, geology, hydrology, noise, vibration, land use and so on )
Noise &
vibration
pollution
Loss of open
“green” areas
Inevitable
High
Direct impact
on the
terrestrial
fauna
Specific
intervention
leading to
impact
Project
phase
Moderate to high Moderate to
Moderate to
high
Adverse
Impact type and source
Loss of
ecological
corridors
Throughout all
phases
Reduce sound
levels
Maintain
natural
corridors
Reversible of
mitigation
measures are
taken on the
lighting units
Inevitable
Ecoserv Ltd
April 2014
Desertion from
Disruption of
area by
normal
vertebrate fauna
behaviour in
vertebrate
fauna
Throughout
all phases
End result
Monitor
behaviour of
key species
in dark and
lighted zones
Monitor status
and
distribution in
disturbed
areas.
Ecoserv Ltd
April 2014
Report on the vertebrate fauna in connection with an EIA for the development of
the area of Villa Rosa, Cresta Quay and Dolphin House/Moynihan House, in St.
George`s Bay, St. Julian`s.
Appendix 4 – Distribution maps – Breeding Birds
Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto
Cetti`s Warbler Cettia cetti
43
Ecoserv Ltd
April 2014
Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis
Sardinian Warbler Sylvia melanocephala
44
Ecoserv Ltd
April 2014
Spectacled Warbler Sylvia conspicillata
Spanish Sparrow Passer hispaniolensis
45
Ecoserv Ltd
April 2014
Distribution maps- Vertebrates other than birds
Algerian Hedgehog Atelerix algirus
Pygmy White-toothed Shrew Suncus etruscus
46
Ecoserv Ltd
April 2014
Lesser Horse-shoe Bat Rhinolophus hipposideros
Maghrebian Bat Myotis punicus
47
Ecoserv Ltd
April 2014
Soprano Pipistrelle Pipistrellus pygmaeus
Kuhl’s Pipistrelle Pipistrellus kuhlii
48
Ecoserv Ltd
April 2014
Grey Long-eared Bat Plecotus austriacus
Weasel Mustela nivalis
49
Ecoserv Ltd
April 2014
Wood Mouse Apodemus sylvaticus
Painted Frog Discoglossus pictus
50
Ecoserv Ltd
April 2014
Chameleon Chamaleo chameleon
Maltese Wall Lizard Podarcis filfolensis
51
Ecoserv Ltd
April 2014
Ocellated Skink Calchides ocellatus
Western Whip Snake Hierophys viridiflavus
52
Ecoserv Ltd
April 2014
Appendix 5 – Photographs of the study areas
Rear side of Villa Rosa bordering on Wied Harq Hamiem
Pine trees and Oleander bushes inside the Villa Rosa grounds.
53
Ecoserv Ltd
April 2014
Pine trees and garigue vegetation inside the Villa Rosa grounds – Breeding site for
Collared Doves and Sardinian Warblers
“Duck” pond used by Collared Doves and probably by foraging bats
54
Ecoserv Ltd
April 2014
“Venus” pool with a population of Painted Frogs and a variety of
invertebrate species. Watering hole for birds and bats.
55
Ecoserv Ltd
April 2014
Carob trees and lush vegetation on valley slopes: breeding site for Cetti`s and
Sardinian Warblers. Most mammal species recorded from this area and surroundings
Lush vegetation along valley and garrigue slopes: breeding site for Cetti`s and Sardinian Warblers.
Most mammal and reptile species recorded from this area
56
Ecoserv Ltd
April 2014
“Green Areas” behind St. George`s Bay
“Green” patches towards mouth of valley between Areas 1 and 3.
57
Ecoserv Ltd
April 2014
John J. Borg
Independent consultant
Vertebrate Ecology and biology
28th April 2014
58
ELLA SAMUT TAGLIAFERRO B.A. (HONS.) (Melit.), M.A. (Melit.) ARCHAEOLOGIST E: [email protected] M: +356 79264918 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS in relation to the proposed demolition of existing and construction of multi ownership holiday accommodation, commercial area, offices, villas and parking at St. George's Bay Hotel, Ix-‐Xatt ta' San Ġorġ, San Ġiljan, Malta -‐ TRK 148158 (EA00016/13). July 2014 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 CONTENTS Contents……………………………………….………………………………….………………………………………………………….2 List of Figures and Tables.………………….………………………….…….…………………………………………………3 1. INTRODUCTION 1.1 Aims………………………………….………………………………….…………………………………………………………..6 1.2 Terms of Reference………………………………….………………………………….……………………………………6 1.3 Area of Study………………………………….………………………………….……………………………………………..6 1.4 Site Location and Description……………….…………………………….…………………………………………….8 2. METHODOLOGY 2.1 Methodology of Study……..………………………….………………………………………………………………….11 2.2 Desk-‐top Research………………………………………………….……………………………………………………….11 2.3 Archaeological Field Walking………………………………….……………………………………………………….11 2.4 Documentation Techniques………………………………….………………………………………………………...12 2.5 Statutory Protection………………………………….…………………………………………………………………….12 3. CULTURAL LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT 3.1 Introductory Note…..…………………….……………………..…………………….…………………………………..24 3.2 Historical Importance of the Area of Study……………………………………….…………………………….25 3.3 Description of the Cultural Heritage Assets……………………………………………………………………..30 3.4 Archaeological Potential and risk assessment of the proposed development site…..………51 4. EVALUATION.………………….………………………………….………………………………………………………………..54 5. BIBLIOGRAPHY………………………………….………………………………….……………………………………………..55 6. APPENDICES 6.1 Field Walking Sheets………………………………….…………….……………………………………………………..57 6.2 North Harbour Local Plan Policy Maps………………………………….………………….……………………..74 Page 2 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 LIST OF FIGURES AND TABLES Figures Figure 1: Plan showing the proposed area of development and the area of influence for the cultural heritage assessment. Figure 2: Photograph showing proposed development site, taken facing South-‐West. Figure 3: Plan showing the proposed area of development. Figure 4: Photograph showing the proposed area of development, taken when facing South-‐West. Figure 5: Photograph showing the proposed area of development and 50 meter radius, taken when facing North-‐West. Figure 6: Photograph showing the proposed area of development, taken when facing South-‐East. Figure 7: Photograph showing the proposed area of development, taken when facing East. Figure 8: Description, location plan, and sketch of the cart-‐ruts found in Harq Hammiem Valley (Source: Magro Conti and Saliba 2005:209) Figure 9: Harq Hammiem Valley and Harq Hammiem Cave located in St. George’s Bay, St. Julian’s (Source: Scheduled property GN370/08) Figure 10: Cart-‐ruts located in Harq Hammiem Valley, St. Julian’s (Source: NHCV02 Policy Map CV1) Figure 11: Villa Rosa, marked in red, located at Triq in-‐Nemes, St. Julian’s (Source: National Inventory of Cultural Property of the Maltese Islands No. 01216) Figure 12: Plan showing the scheduled property within the area of study (Source: Scheduling of Property no. 755/95) Figure 13: Plan showing the scheduled military buildings (Source: Scheduling of Property no. 880/09) Figure 14: Plan showing the cultural features present within the proposed area of development and 50 metre radius. Figure 15: Photograph of the Villa Rosa, taken facing South-‐West. Figure 16: Photograph of the Villa Rosa, taken facing North-‐East. Figure 17: Photograph of the Villa Rosa, taken facing North-‐West. Figure 18: Photograph of the Villa Rosa, taken facing South-‐East. Figure 19: Photograph of the back area of Villa Rosa, taken facing South. Page 3 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Figure 20: Photograph of the Villa Rosa terraced gardens, taken facing North-‐East. Figure 21: Photograph of the Villa Rosa, taken facing South-‐West. Figure 22: Photograph of the Villa Rosa terraced gardens, showing the exposed bedrock, taken facing North-‐East. Figure 23: Photograph of the Villa Rosa terraced gardens, showing the exposed bedrock, taken facing South-‐East. Figure 24: Photograph of the Villa Rosa terraced gardens, showing the exposed bedrock, taken facing North-‐East. Figure 25: Photograph of the Villa Rosa terraced gardens, showing the exposed bedrock, taken facing South-‐West. Figure 26: Photograph of the Villa Rosa terraced gardens taken facing North-‐East. Figure 27: Photograph of the Villa Rosa terraced gardens, taken facing North-‐East. Figure 28: Photograph of the Villa Rosa terraced gardens, taken facing North-‐West. Figure 29: Photograph of the Harq Hammiem cave buffer zone, taken facing South-‐West. Figure 30: Photograph of the Harq Hammiem cave buffer zone, taken facing East. Figure 31: Photograph of the cart ruts noted by Magro Conti and Saliba [2005], taken facing North-‐East. Figure 32: Photograph of the cart ruts noted by Magro Conti and Saliba [2005], taken facing South-‐West. Figure 33: Photograph of the cart ruts, taken facing North-‐West. Figure 34: Photograph of the rubble walls, taken facing South-‐East. Figure 35: Photograph of the field room found in a good condition, taken facing South-‐West. Figure 36: Photograph of the field room found in a very poor condition, taken facing North-‐West. Figure 37: Photograph of the masonry blocks and paving, taken facing North. Figure 38: Photograph of the masonry blocks and paving, taken facing South-‐West. Figure 39: Photograph of the field room found in a very poor condition, taken facing North-‐East. Figure 40: Photograph of the Moynihan House, taken facing North-‐East. Figure 41: Photograph of the military guardroom, taken facing North-‐East. Figure 42: Photograph of the letter box, taken facing South-‐East (left) and North-‐East (right). Figure 43: Photograph of the Monks Convent of St. Augustine & St. Rita Chapel, taken facing South-‐West. Page 4 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Tables Table 1: List of the cultural features present within the proposed area of development and 50 metre radius and their proposed protection. Table 2: List of the cultural features present within the proposed area of development and 50 metre radius and the impacts of the proposed development works on the cultural features. Page 5 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 1. INTRODUCTION 1.1
Aims The purpose of the Cultural Heritage Assessment is to provide a comprehensive study on the cultural heritage assets within the area of study, consisting of archaeological, historical, architectural, industrial heritage, and rural and vernacular features, including rubble walls. The cultural heritage assessment will describe, analyse, and assess the cultural heritage features within the context of the cultural heritage landscape within the area of study. The assessment will include a field survey and the research of the cultural heritage in the area, including archaeological, historical, architectural, ethnographic, paleontological, and geological features. 1.2
Terms of Reference The Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) require an Environmental Planning Statement (EPS), in compliance with Maltese legalisation, for the proposed demolition of existing and construction of multi ownership holiday accommodation, commercial area, offices, villas and parking at St. George's Bay Hotel, Ix-‐Xatt ta' San Ġorġ, San Ġiljan, Malta -‐ TRK 148158 (EA00016/13). The undersigned has been commissioned to carry out a cultural heritage assessment of TRK 148158 by Mr. Anton Camilleri on behalf of Garnet Investments Ltd. This report is based on the Terms of Reference issued by MEPA on the 4th February 2014 and in line with the conditions issued by the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage (SCH) on the 28th April 2014. 1.3
Area of Study The area of study for the purpose of this report covers the footprint of the proposed development site, TRK 148158 (EA00016/13), and an area of influence, which extends to a 300 metre radius around the footprint of the proposed development site as shown in Figure 1. Page 6 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Figure 1: Plan showing the proposed area of development and the area of influence for the cultural heritage assessment. Figure 2: Photograph showing proposed development site, taken facing South-‐West. Page 7 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS 1.4
July 2014 Site location and description The site is located in the area known as St. George’s Bay, situated at the mouth of the valley known as Wied Harq Hammiem located between Ras San Gorg and Ras Dragunara in the locality of St. Julian’s (San Giljan). The Villa Rosa grounds are located between three roads; Triq Santu Wistin to the South-‐East, Ix-‐Xatt Ta’ San Gorg to the north-‐East, and Sqaq Lourdes to the South. St. George’s Bay (Il-‐Bajja ta’ San Gorg) lies to the East of the site, while the valley known as Harq Hammiem (Wied Harq Hammiem) lies to the West of the site. Residential and commercial areas are found to the south of the site, in the locality of St. Julian’s (San Giljan). Another residential area is found to the north of the site, in the locality of Pembroke. Figure 3: Plan showing the proposed area of development. Page 8 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 The area forms part of the coastline, which occurs on upper coralline limestone. The region has been covered over by buildings for both residential and commercial use and has been heavily modified by building activity. Figure 4: Photograph showing the proposed area of development, taken when facing South-‐West. Figure 5: Photograph showing the proposed area of development and 50 meter radius, taken when facing North-‐
West. Page 9 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 The area of the proposed development site is one of the remaining areas in the region that has not been modified heavily by building activity and also includes an area, which has not been subject to development. Figure 6: Photograph showing the proposed area of development, taken when facing South-‐East. Figure 7: Photograph showing the proposed area of development, taken when facing East. Page 10 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 2. METHODOLOGY 2.1
Methodology of Study The study within the area shown in Figure 1 will incorporate the archaeological, historical, architectural, industrial, rural, and vernacular features all of which fall under the broad term of cultural heritage assets. The cultural heritage assessment will include an archaeological survey, which consists of archaeological field walking and a desk-‐top research of the cultural heritage in the area. The methodology will be based on what is known as Ground Reconnaissance. Ground Reconnaissance consists primarily of fieldwork but also involves the consultation of documentary sources and place name evidence in order to identify sites or features [Renfrew & Bahn 1991: 76-‐
83]. The archaeological survey will be a non-‐intrusive study of the archaeological landscape. No aerial reconnaissance or sub-‐surface surveys, including investigations or excavations will be carried out. Investigations for potential archaeology (buried or surface) will not be carried out and are considered as reserved matters and directed by the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage. 2.2
Desk-‐top Research Research will consist of a desktop and archival research of the cultural heritage features found within a 300 metre radius of the site and will provide a historical background and information regarding the cultural heritage features within the area of study. Research will be carried out in order to collate information about the cultural relevance of the site throughout history, the current cultural assets present, as well as the corrective measures for the protection of cultural heritage within the area of study. This shall comprise of: i.
Reference to existing literature, old manuscripts, reports of previous discoveries. ii.
The analysis of cartographic, photographic, and other graphic material. iii.
Reference to statutory protection within the area of study. 2.3
Archaeological field walking The fieldwork will consist of “field walking” and a visual topographic survey within the proposed development site and to a 50 metre radius of the site in order to identify the cultural heritage found within the area. Fieldwork within the proposed development site will be carried out by means of following the existing pathways and recording of features. An unsystematic survey will be carried out within a 50 metre radius of the proposed development site. Page 11 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 2.4
Documentation Techniques Relevant information for each feature shall be recorded on field walking sheets as per the Operating Procedures and Standards for Archaeology Services published by the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage. Major cultural sites or features identified in the course of the survey will be recorded on Data Capture Sheets provided by MEPA as per Terms of Reference dated 4th February 2014. 2.5
Statutory Protection Reference will be made to relevant legislation standards, guidance, and practices which include the Structure Plan for the Maltese Islands 1990, the Development Planning Act 1992, and the Cultural Heritage Act 2002. These documents relate to the protection of cultural heritage. In particular, the following sections were deemed most relevant. Cultural Heritage Act According to the Cultural Heritage Act, cultural heritage means movable or immovable objects of artistic, architectural, historical, archaeological, ethnographic, palaeontological and geological importance and includes information or data relative to cultural heritage pertaining to Malta or to any other country. (Section 1.2) The Act protects Cultural Heritage and further states that ‘for the purposes of this Act, an object shall not be deemed to form part of the cultural heritage unless it had existed in Malta, including the territorial waters thereof, or in any other country, for fifty years, or unless it is an object of cultural, artistic, historical, ethnographic, scientific or industrial value, even if contemporary, that is worth preserving.’ (Section 2.3) No person shall make any interventions on such cultural property or classes thereof without first having obtained a permit therefore from the Superintendent. (Section 44.3) The Superintendent may commend for scheduling to the Planning Authority such sites and buildings which he deems should be scheduled within the meaning of the Development Planning Act. (Section 44.1) Prior and subject to the determination of an application, investigations are required to be carried out ‘before determining an application under subarticle (3) the Superintendent may require such information including the results of such tests, examinations or inspection by such persons accredited under this Act for the purpose as may be required by the Superintendent, and such research on the history, composition provenance or other aspects of the relevant cultural property as he may consider necessary for the purpose.’ (Section 44.4) Should an application be granted, the Superintendent may impose such conditions as he may consider appropriate, including without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing that the work or any part thereof shall be carried out in accordance with such protocol as may be prescribed or as Page 12 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 may be attached to the permit, that the work and the various phases thereof be photographed or otherwise documented or recorded, that a report on the work be delivered to the superintendent at such times as may be stated in the permit is carried out, by or under the supervision as shall be stated in the permit, of such warrant holder, professional or other person accredited under this Act for such work. (Section 44.5) Archaeological excavations are restricted as stated in Section 43.1 ‘Archaeological or palaeontological excavations or explorations on land as well as in the territorial waters or in the contiguous zone of Malta can only be made by the Superintendent, or with the written permission of the Superintendent.’ Whereby chance discoveries of archaeological remains are also stated ‘Any person who, even accidentally, discovers any object, site or building to which this Act applies in accordance with article 3, shall immediately inform the superintendent, keep the object found in situ, and shall not for a period of six working days after informing the Superintendent proceed with any work on the site where the object of cultural property is discovered.’ (Section 43.2) Section 43.3 till Section 43.7 describes the rights and obligations by all parties in the eventuality of an archaeological discovery. In relation to international conventions and charters, Section 49 states that ‘The powers and duties under this Act shall be exercised in conformity with any international convention, treaty, agreement or instrument concerning the proper use and conservation of national or world cultural property to which Malta may be a party.’ The National Inventory of Cultural Property of the Maltese Islands is a register of cultural property in Malta which was established according to article 7(5)(a) of the Cultural Heritage Act, 2002. The aim of the inventory is to identify and inform the general public of Malta’s rich heritage of cultural property assets. Structure Plan of the Maltese Islands 1990 The Structure Plan states that Areas of Archaeological Importance and smaller Sites of Archaeological Importance need to be identified and graded according to the level of protection required. Policies that refer to the grading are contained within the Structure Plan. Policy ARC 1 states that ‘in Local Plans for urban areas, whether Urban Conservation Areas or not, the Planning Authority will identify and designate Sites of Archaeological Importance.’ Local Plans for urban areas, within Urban Conservation Areas or not, the Planning Authority shall identify and designate Sites of Archaeological Importance. Further to Policy ARC 1, Structure Plan Policy ARC 2 shall not allow development that would adversely affect the natural setting of the monuments or sites if within an area considered to be top priority conservation, Class A. Class B is considers features to be very important and to be preserved at all costs. Therefore adequate measures must be taken in order to preclude any damage resulting from immediate development. Page 13 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Features classified as Class C, must have every effort made for preservation, but may be covered up after proper investigation, documentation and cataloguing. Provision for subsequent access shall be provided. Class D features belong to a type known from numerous other examples. These are to be properly recorded and catalogued before covering or destroying. Policy ARC 3 states that ‘Applications for planning permission for development affecting ancient monuments and important archaeological areas and sites, including areas and sites having such potential, will normally be refused if there is an overriding case for preservation. Where there is no overriding case for preservation, development of such sites will not normally be permitted until adequate opportunities have been provided for the recording and, where desirable, the excavation of such sites.’ According to Policy ARC 7 The Planning Authority will adopt, maintain, and extend the National Protective Inventory by initiating a programme of further investigation for all ratings of Areas and Sites of Archaeological Importance. Policy ARC 6 grants the protection of this policy. The Structure Plan contains policies that refer to the grading of Urban Conservation Areas: Policy UCO 6 states that ‘Within Urban Conservation Areas, the basic objective will be to preserve and enhance all buildings, spaces, townscape, and landscape which are of Architectural or Historical Interest, and generally to safeguard areas of high environmental quality and improve areas of low quality.’ Policy UCO 7 establishes a grading for Urban Conservation Areas whereby: Grade 1 buildings shall retain their entirety. Demolition or alterations that impairs the setting or changes the external or internal appearance, including anything contained within the curtilage of the building, shall not be allowed. Grade 2 buildings contribute to the visual image of an Urban Conservation Area and will normally not be given permission to demolish such buildings. Demolition of Grade 3 buildings, having no historical importance and being of relatively minor architectural interest, will be allowed provided that the replacement building is in harmony with the surroundings. Policy UCO 13 states that ‘wherever possible, by control or positive intervention, buildings of architectural, historical, and townscape importance, gardens, and other areas of architectural or historical interest will be conserved.’ According to Policy RCO 3, of the Rural Conservation Area policies, ‘As soon as is practicable after the adoption of the Structure Plan, the Planning Authority will draw up Local Plans covering all the areas designated by the Plan as Rural Conservation Areas. The purpose of these Local Plans will be to: Page 14 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS 1.
2.
July 2014 Specify the precise boundaries of areas having different forms of scenic value, Areas of Agricultural Value, Areas of Ecological Importance, Sites of Scientific Importance, Areas and Sites of Archaeological Importance, National Parks, and Areas of High Landscape Value Specify in detail the measures of protection and enhancement to be adopted with respect to the various uses and activities’ Local Plan The local plan consists of policy maps of the Islands that should act as a main guide for the MEPA development proposals. These policies are highlighted in bold type and are followed by a description. The Local Plan designates special areas for protection, but relevant Policies, Plans and Guidance remain applicable unless stated otherwise by a specific policy in the Local Plan. The North Harbour Local Plan is of specific interest, since it contains the relevant policy, NHPV13, to the proposed area of development. Policies NHCV01, NHCV02, and NHSE07 are relevant to the area of study. NHPV13 Villa Rosa In considering the comprehensive redevelopment of the Villa Rosa area, MEPA will seek the following objectives and guidelines. The grounds of Villa Rosa are divided into Zones as indicated on Map PV4. Zone A: Tourism and Leisure Uses (High Density Development Area) i. Use: tourism uses, leisure uses and a car park to be developed within the limits as indicated in Map PV4 subject to a satisfactory TIS; ii. Building Height: 4 floors from the lower road level; iii. Urban Design: Attention is to be given to back elevational treatment of buildings; and iv. Environmental Considerations: The sensitive location and access of the Scheduled Level 1 Cave and its buffer area must not be encroached upon by development in Zone A. Excavation works should be limited to within the boundary of Zone A in order that the cave and valley designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) are not affected in any way. No activities from Zone A shall be allowed to encroach into the non-‐developable protected valley area to the north of Zone A. Zone B: Tourism and Leisure Uses (High Density Development Area) i. Use: tourist accommodation with leisure facilities; ii. Building Height: not to exceed the height of 6 floors plus overlying penthouse level but without semi-‐basement above higher street level at the southern side of Zone B adjacent to the existing development. The development is to be terraced Page 15 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 and stepped down from this maximum building height limitation down to 2 floors without semi-‐basement adjacent to St. George’s bay and the Villa Rosa gardens; and iii. Urban Design: The overall building envelope shall be sensitive to the setting of the Villa Rosa and its gardens and of the bay. Zone C: Catering Establishments, Retail and Leisure Uses (Low Key/Low Density Development Area) i. Use: small scale retail, catering establishments and leisure facilities; ii. Building Height: not exceeding 2 floors; and iii. Urban Design: In order to safeguard views onto the Villa Rosa and its gardens from the bay, buildings located within Zone C shall be designed in such a way as to provide a wide strategic view line onto the Villa Rosa as shown on Map PV4. To this end, these buildings are to have a total frontage length that amounts to not more then 50% of the total frontage length of Zone C. Buildings are to be low key and low density with an overall site coverage in Zone C not exceeding 50%. No structures will be allowed at roof level of these buildings. Attention is to be given to back elevational treatment of buildings proposed in this zone. The 50% un-‐built site coverage is to be appropriately landscaped retaining wherever possible existing mature trees. Proposals are to include the total removal of the existing front boundary wall. Managed public access through Zone C is also to be secured. Zone D: Retention of Upper Gardens i. The rehabilitation and conservation of the existing upper gardens is required; and ii. No structures will be permitted in this zone. Major physical interventions will not be considered appropriate in this no development zone. Zone E: Viable Re-‐use of Villa Rosa i. Development proposals in all the other zones shall respect the intended reuse and setting of the Villa Rosa and the surrounding upper gardens in Zone D; ii. A full rehabilitation programme, including appropriate minor internal/external alterations that are necessary to accommodate the new use for Villa Rosa, will be sought provided that the architectural integrity of the Villa is fully respected; and iii. All proposals should respect the historic and architectural detailing and the setting of the Villa in accordance with the scheduled status of the building and its prominent location. Any development, even if located outside the Villa Rosa site, is to safeguard the strategic view line onto Villa Rosa as indicated in Maps PV1 and PV4. Zone F: Tourism/Residential Accommodation Area (Low key/Low density Development Area) i. Use: Up market/niche market tourist/residential accommodation that shall consist of a maximum of 15 bungalows shall be considered in Zone F. These bungalows are to be planned so as to create a gated community; Page 16 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 ii. Building Height: not exceeding 1 floor from upper site level of each bungalow; iii. Urban Design: Development in this zone is to fully respect the context of the existing gardens. These bungalows are to be designed in order to be unobtrusive on views onto the gardens and onto Villa Rosa, and to constitute low key/low density development. The site coverage of bungalow development in Zone F is not to exceed 25%, and the building footprint of each bungalow is not to exceed an area of 170 sqm. The layout and location of these bungalows is to ensure that all existing mature trees in this Zone are retained, and that the canopy of these trees is to screen as far as possible these bungalows from view. Attention is to be given to back elevational treatment of buildings proposed in this zone. Proposals are to include managed access through Zone F; and iv. Environmental Considerations: Given the existing problems of storm water run-‐
off through the lower parts of the site and into St. George’s Bay, appropriate water management measures will be sought in Zone F. To achieve this, a properly designed, landscaped and managed watercourse will be reinstated in this Zone to the satisfaction of MEPA. A minimum of 2 m on either side of the managed watercourse is to be left free from any development. Zone G: Pedestrianisation of Bay Shoreline i. Retention of full vehicle access along Ix-‐Xatt Ta’ San Gorg is no longer essential as the St. George’s Bay area is now well connected to the Arterial Road via the new hotel link road. ii. As part of a comprehensive development proposal for the Villa Rosa site proposals are to include the semi-‐pedestrianisation of the road space marked under Zone G. The possibility of full pedestrianisation of Zone G will also be investigated to the satisfaction of MEPA. iii. Given the uses being promoted at Zone C fronting the bay, opportunity exists to capitalize on the use of this space for public outdoor use. iv. The physical re-‐design of the pedestrian area should include suitable materials, and proposals should include details of street furniture, paving and other materials. The road space should be designed in a way that will allow the placing of tables and chairs and other outdoor activities. v. Proposals seeking to pedestrianise Ix-‐Xatt Ta’ San Gorg are to be in tune with the pedestrianisation scheme being indicated for Triq Santu Wistin. Zone H: Open Area fronting the Bay i. This area is to be developed into a suitably landscaped and fully publicly accessible open space. No construction works will be allowed in Zone H. MEPA will ensure that the completion of this publicly accessible open space shall be secured before any other development works as detailed in this Policy are taken in hand. Zone I: Ancillary Facilities i. Ancillary Facilities will be permitted within this area provided that these are planned totally underground, and provided that the roof level of these facilities is properly modeled and landscaped in order to complement and reinstate fully the Page 17 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 symmetrical layout, design and landscaping of the formal upper garden in Zone D. The reinstated upper surface will be treated as part of and in accordance with the policy requirements for Zone D. 15.4.26 During the local plan period the Villa Rosa area is likely to be subject to intensification of tourist uses and the redevelopment of the existing hotel. Given the size and sensitive nature of the site, this Policy and Map PV4 are intended to guide the developer towards achieving a development that is sensitive to the site itself and to its surroundings. MEPA will seek to ensure that any redevelopment positively contributes to the improvement of the public realm and transport infrastructure. Given that night-‐time and day-‐time activity is likely to significantly increase in the St. George's Bay area, MEPA will expect the development to make a tangible contribution to the traffic management strategy outlined by Area Policies NHPV01 and 3. Furthermore, studies carried out on the use of St. George’s Bay especially after the recent upgrading and regeneration indicate that beach users demand that the area around the beach should be fully pedestrianised to introduce a feeling of safety from cars. Investigations on introducing full pedestrianisation of Triq ix-‐Xatt ta’ San Gorg will therefore be followed by the Plan for this area in conjunction with all relevant authorities and stakeholders to this effect. NHCV01 Protection of SACs, SSIs, AEIs and AHLSs MEPA designates Special Areas of Conservation as indicated on Maps CV1 and CV3 and in accordance with LN 257/03 and GN 877/03. Areas of Ecological Importance (AEIs), Sites of Scientific Importance (SSIs) and Areas of High Landscape Sensitivity (AHLSs) are indicated on Maps CV1 to CV5, and these are designated by MEPA to be conserved in accordance with Section 46 of the Development Planning Act, 1992. In these protected areas and sites development will only be permitted provided it accords with all the relevant Structure Plan Policies, Legal and Government Notices relating to SACs, AEIs, SSIs and AHLSs. Proposed developments located within AHLSs are also to adhere to all the relevant provisions of MEPA’s Supplementary Guidance document entitled ‘Landscape Assessment Study of the Maltese Islands’. 8.4.1 In accordance with LN 257/03 and GN 877/03, Special Areas of Conservation including a NATURA 2000 Site of International Importance at Pembroke and two SACs of National Importance at Wied Harq Hamiem and Wied Ghollieqa are protected by MEPA. Furthermore, in accordance with Structure Plan Policy RCO12, MEPA will seek to safeguard and protect all AEIs, SSIs and AHLSs located within the North Harbours through the Local Plan process. Sites and areas to be protected also include Garrigue and Maquis containing indigenous and archaeophytic species that contribute to the typical Mediterranean setting and are of considerable ecological value. 8.4.2 A general presumption against development will apply on sites designated within the Local Plan as SACs, AEIs, SSIs and AHLS’s, particularly on crests and sides of faults, of valleys and the edges of the coast. In this respect, unacceptable development also includes conflicting agricultural development and reclamation, roads and public utility services. A general presumption also exists against any Page 18 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 activities likely to introduce pollution and damage risks to SACs, AEIs, SSIs and AHLSs. In these areas and sites, MEPA would favourably promote the removal of intrusive elements and the eventual rehabilitation of damaged areas and habitats. These listed sites also include buffer zones to further regulate developments near and adjacent to SACs, AEIs, SSIs and AHLSs. Development that affects AHLSs will be considered by MEPA following the requirements set by the Draft Landscape Assessment Study of the Maltese Islands (2004) and relative Structure Plan Policies. AHLSs are indicated on MAP CV5 and include all major North Harbour valleys. 8.4.3 10 sites of scientific importance were recognised within the Plan area which satisfy Policy RCO11 of the Structure Plan on the basis of geology or geomorphology. A further 8 sites are identified as AEIs. Some of these are already scheduled, whilst MEPA is seeking the designation of the other sites. The sites are: SITES OF SCIENTIFIC IMPORTANCE (GEOLOGY/GEOMORPHOLOGY) Level of Protection 1. Quaternary Deposits at Sliema Terraces 1 2. Wied id-‐Dis and Wied il-‐Faham, Madliena 1 3. Cave and valley at Harq il-‐Hamiem, St. George’s Bay 1 4. Disused Public Wash-‐House at Msida 2 5. Gorge at Wied Mexju 2 6. Wied il-‐Balluta 2 7. Wied Ghollieqa 4 8. Victoria Lines Fault 2 9. Terminal Lower Coralline Limestone Hardground at Tignè 4 10. Exposures of LCL at Wied il-‐Kbir and Wied Ghomor 4 AREAS OF ECOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE/ SITES OF SCIENTIFIC IMPORTANCE (ECOLOGY ) Level of Protection 1. The coastal strip and abutting inland garrigue and rocky steppe between Ix-‐Xwieghi and It-‐Torri ta` San Gorg 1 – 3 2. The area around the Wied id-‐Dis Escarpment near It-‐Torri tal-‐Madliena 3 and TPO 3. Il-‐Qaliet pools and adjacent coastal strip to Spinola excluding the Hilton redevelopment site. 1 and 3 4. The Tignè coastal strip 4 5. The Wied Mejxu/Wied Harq il-‐Hamiem system (including Harq il-‐Hamiem cave). 1 and 4 6. The Wied il-‐Kbir/Wied Ghomor system 2, 3 and 4 7. Wied il-‐Balluta 2 8. Wied Ghollieqa 1 -‐ 4 8.4.4 Appendix 2 describes the main geomorphology and other features that have justified designations as Sites of Special Scientific Importance within the plan area. Applicants, landowners and the public are advised to contact MEPA for detailed descriptions and the legal boundaries of these sites. Page 19 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 NHCV02 Protection of Archaeological Features Areas and Sites of Archaeological Importance (AAIs, SAIs) are indicated on Maps CV1, 2, 3, 4 and 6, and listed in Appendix 3. Where Areas and Sites of Archaeological Importance as indicated in this Local Plan are not already scheduled, MEPA will seek to schedule these features to secure their conservation in accordance with Section 46 of the Development Planning Act (1992). Proposals for development likely to adversely affect Areas and Sites of Archaeological Importance will be refused if there is an overriding case for preservation. Where MEPA, in consultation with the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage, decides that there is no overriding case for preservation, permission to development the site will only be granted after a planning obligation has been entered into by the developer that secures a satisfactory monitoring programme of archaeological excavation, recording and conservation by a competent archaeologist. In these cases development may be considered subject to modifications as required and as directed by MEPA in consultation with the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage based on the mentioned assessment of the archaeological significance of the findings. In accordance with Structure Plan Policy ARC2, the Local Plan designates different levels of protection for the Areas and Sites of Archaeological Importance as listed in Appendix 3 and as indicated in Map CV6. Buffer zones around these features will be established as follows: i. A minimum of 100m for Class A archaeological features in which no development will be allowed; and ii. 50m buffer zones for Class B-‐E archaeological features in which no development that would jeopardise the feature will be allowed. In the case of archaeological features identified through this Local Plan as Class E, no development will be permitted within the site until the applicant has secured the implementation of a scheme of investigation as approved by MEPA. MEPA in conjunction with the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage will reserve the right to re-‐classify Areas and Sites of Archaeological Importance listed as Class E following such investigations. 8.4.5 Any development proposal affecting an Area or Site of Archaeological Importance will be examined critically to determine whether remains/potential remains would be damaged by development. Once MEPA has sufficient information it will seek to ensure that potential conflicts arising from the proposed development are adequately resolved. Where development is likely to affect a site of archaeological interest, the developer will be required to finance the necessary programme of archaeological work prior to any development. It must be emphasised that the preservation on site of important archaeological remains is always to be preferred and this will be the primary objective of all negotiations. Where there is no over-‐riding Page 20 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 case for preservation, development of such sites will only be permitted after alternative layouts have been fully examined which seek to avoid the site/monument. Before a permit is issued, agreement must be reached to cover provision for detailed excavation, ground and structural surveys in advance of development. All this can form part of an agreement prior to the development taking place. 8.4.6 In all cases of proposals affecting areas or sites of archaeological importance, MEPA will identify and advise on the level of protection appropriate to the specific site. The same criteria or priorities of preservation are being adopted as those suggested by the List of Archaeological Sites for Priority Protection (1990), which were eventually adapted in the Structure Plan, namely, A, B, C, D. This policy affords further protection (Class E) in cases where a site or monument is known to have existed as referred to in written documents, prints, maps, paintings or photographs, but at present is no longer visible. 8.4.7 The following summarises different levels of protection afforded through Structure Plan Policy ARC02 and this Policy: A -‐ Top priority preservation. To be preserved at all costs with its present natural environment to a distance of at least 100m radius. B -‐ Very Important. To be preserved at all costs C -‐ Every effort must be made for it to be preserved, but may be covered over for force majeure after proper investigation, documentation and cataloguing. D -‐ Belonging to a type known from various other examples. To be properly recorded and catalogued before covering over. E -‐ Untraced: covered or no longer existing. Area to be closely monitored if development is considered. NHSE07 Strategic Views In accordance with Structure Plan Policies UCO10 and RCO4, a number of Strategic View Corridors are established to protect long views into and out of the plan area. Strategic Landmark Buildings are identified to provide a focus for these views. These View Corridors, as illustrated on Map SE2, include the building planes and skylines that should not be significantly disrupted by new development, especially high buildings. Views of important valleys will also be protected. Key identified view corridors are; i. Valletta/Marsamxett Harbour to Msida Church and towards Mdina. ii. University Site to Tignè Point, Marsamxett Harbour and Valletta. iii. Fort Madliena to Madliena Tower, White Rocks Tower and Sir Adrian Dingli School. iv. Wied Ghomor/St. George’s Bay/Spinola Bay from Tal-‐Balal. Where deemed necessary by MEPA, applicants shall be required to provide photo-‐
montages in order to prove that the new development will not significantly disrupt the identified building planes and skylines. Page 21 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 2.4.16 Within the identified Strategic View Corridors MEPA shall safeguard the settings of key landscapes, landmark buildings, Urban Conservation Areas and the Valletta World Heritage Site. The purpose of identifying these corridors is to recognise that certain key buildings can be seen from many locations. Their setting should be protected to maintain visual orientation and prevent homogeneous townscapes and skylines. Further policy guidance on safeguarding views as they affect Urban Conservation Areas is given in MEPA’s Policy and Design Guidance: Development Control in Urban Conservation Areas (1995), para. 29. Development Planning Act 1992 Scheduling of Property no.755/95 in terms of Section 46 of the Development Planning Act, 1992 designates Villa Rosa at Triq in-‐Nemes, St. Julian’s as Grade 1 in terms of Structure Plan Policy UCO 7. Scheduling of Property no.755/95 in terms of Section 46 of the Development Planning Act, 1992 also designates the Nun’s Convent/School at Triq Santu Wistin, St. Julians as Grade 2 in terms of Structure Plan Policy UCO7 and the Institue of Tourism Studies at Triq il-‐Profs. Walter Ganado, St. Julian’s as Grade 2 in terms of Structure Plan Policy UCO 7. Scheduling of Property no.370/08 in terms of Section 46 of the Development Planning Act, 1992 extends the scheduling boundary of the Harq Hammiem Valley and Harq Hammiem Cave, limits of St. Julian’s and Pembroke, to cover the entire valley system and delineate the correct location of the cave and its buffer/constraint zone. Temporary Provisions Scheme The Temporary Provisions Act of 1988 was revoked by the Development Planning Act of 1992, although the zoning designations are confirmed in the Structure Plan. Environment Protection Act 1991 Legal notice 160 of 1997 (as amended by Legal Notice 169 of 2004) by law requires the conservation and maintenance of rubble walls and rural structures. The law defines a rubble wall as a dry stone wall, built in loose, unhewn stones which stands by gravity and friction without the use of mortar. (Section 4) It states that rubble walls and non-‐habitable rural structures are protected in view of their historical and architectural importance, their exceptional beauty, their affording a habitat for flora and fauna, and their vital importance in the conservation of the soil and of water. (Section 2) The law also states that ‘certain areas to be rubble wall conservation areas, in which areas no alterations to the location or construction of rubble walls and the traditional methods of their repair and maintenance shall be permitted unless a written request and approval are previously made to and obtained from the Director for the Protection of the Environment.’ In such areas the owner or Page 22 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 occupier of a conservation area is bound to repair or re-‐erect all the rubble walls within such conservation area in a specified time period not exceeding five years, and that such owner or occupier shall thenceforth maintain such rubble walls in good state of repair. (Section 3) In addition and according to amendments in terms of Legal Notice 169 of 2004 ‘The Competent Authority may issue a permit to authorise the performance of any works or activity which would otherwise not be permitted under these regulations. Provided that no such permit is required for sensitively executed repairs to existing rubble walls, provided that such repairs: (a) are carried out exclusively using the same type of drystone rubble walling (sejjieh) that composes the existing wall; (b) satisfy all the protective conditions and safeguards contained in these regulations and in the Development Notification Order; and (c) do not increase the height or extent of the existing wall or otherwise significantly modify the general site topography or the overall profile or character of the wall.’ (Section 4) The law prohibits the construction or addition, on any rubble wall, of any drum, tank or any other object unless constructed of rubble wall building material. It is also prohibited to demolish, endanger, and undermine foundations of rubble walls and to prevent free percolation of rainwater through rubble wall structures. (Section 5) Page 23 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 3. Cultural Landscape Assessment 3.1
Introductory Note The cultural heritage assessment of TRK 148158 was undertaken by the undersigned, Ella Samut-‐
Tagliaferro B.A. (Melit.), M.A. (Melit.) Archaeology, as per Terms of Reference issued by MEPA on the 4th February 2014 and as per conditions imposed by the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage on the 28th April 2014. An extensive desk-‐top research and field walking exercise was undertaken in the area of study. Although various sources were consulted, difficulties arose because existing literature for the area of study is very poor. The general works of Abela (1647) and Ciantar (1772) were consulted, as well as Evans (1971), Trump (1997), and Spiteri (1999). Other publications have also been consulted and are listed in the bibliography. The Annual Reports on the Workings of the Museums Department (MARs), published from 1904 onwards, were also examined, providing no references for the area in question. Information regarding the area of study was mainly obtained from government bodies through the scheduling of known cultural heritage assets. Difficulties encountered during the field-‐walking exercise consist of inaccessible areas due to boundary walls or fences, and vegetation overgrowth. Page 24 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS 3.2
July 2014 Historical Importance of the Area of Study The earliest reference to features within the area was noted as early as 1772 by Ciantar, who noted the presence of a natural cave. Following this, no reference was made to the area of study, except for the listing of cart-‐ruts in a catalogue in the book edited by J. Magro Conti and P.C. Saliba (2005), shown in Figure 8. Figure 8: Description, location plan, and sketch of the cart-‐ruts found in Harq Hammiem Valley (Source: Magro Conti and Saliba 2005:209) Over the last few decades, studies carried out by authorities (MEPA and SCH) have resulted in a good amount of information relating to the historical features within the area. The area of study contains a number of archaeological, architectural, and geological features. The Harq Hammiem cave is a unique natural feature, which consists of two chambers found on different levels and an interconnecting narrow corridor leading from the upper chamber to the lower fully submerged chamber. This cave is found overlooking St. George’s Bay and is currently designated as Level 1 as per Scheduling of Property no.583/96 in terms of Section 46 of the Development Planning Act. Scheduling of Property no.370/08 in terms of Section 46 of the Development Planning Act, 1992 extends the scheduling boundary of the Harq Hammiem Valley and Harq Hammiem Cave, limits of St. Julian’s and Pembroke, to cover the entire valley system and delineate the correct location of the cave and its buffer/constraint zone, as shown in Figure 9 below. Page 25 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Figure 9: Harq Hammiem Valley and Harq Hammiem Cave located in St. George’s Bay, St. Julian’s (Source: Scheduled property GN370/08) Two pairs of short cart-‐ruts located in Wied Harq Hammiem and orientated in a North-‐East to South-‐West direction were noted by Magri Conti and Saliba, as shown in Figure 8 above. The cart-‐
ruts are partially deteriorated and are about 12m long, having channels of about 0.15cm wide and a baulk of 1.05m [Magro Conti and Saliba 2005: 209]. The cart ruts are listed archaeological features and protected within a buffer zone as per North Harbour Local Plan Policy NHCV 02, as shown in Figure 10. Page 26 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Figure 10: Cart-‐ruts located in Harq Hammiem Valley, St. Julian’s (Source: NHCV02 Policy Map CV1) There appears to be no information relevant to the classical and medieval periods within the area of study. Despite this, a number of architectural features and a possible archaeological feature are found to date to the modern period (16th Century to 20th Century A.D.). The architectural features consist of military, civil, and religious buildings. Civil buildings include Villa Rosa located at Triq in-‐Nemes, San Giljan which dates to the British period, shown in Figure 10. Scheduling of Property no.755/95 in terms of Section 46 of the Development Planning Act, 1992 designates the residential villa as Grade 1 in terms of Structure Plan Policy UCO7, shown in Figure 11. Page 27 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Figure 11: Villa Rosa, marked in red, located at Triq in-‐Nemes, St. Julian’s (Source: National Inventory of Cultural Property of the Maltese Islands No. 01216) Figure 12: Plan showing the scheduled property within the area of study (Source: Scheduling of Property no. 755/95) Page 28 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 The other civil building consists of a palazzo with underground passages located at Mercury House, Triq San Gorg, San Giljan. Scheduling of Property no.839/06 in terms of Section 46 of the Development Planning Act, 1992 designates the residential villa as Grade 2 in terms of Structure Plan Policy UCO7. The convent and chapel known as the Monks Convent of St. Augustine & St. Rita Chapel located at Triq Santu Wistin, San Giljan is also designated as Grade 2 in terms of Structure Plan Policy UCO7, as per Scheduling of Property no. 879/09, as shown in Figure 12 above. A number of military buildings including the Church of England Garrison Church located in Triq Tunis, Pembroke, and the military guardroom, located at X-‐xatt ta' San Gorg, are designated as Grade 2 of Structure Plan Policy UCO7 as per Scheduling of Property no. 880/09. (Refer to Figure 13). Barracks consisting of the Officers Married Quarters St. George’s and St. George's Barracks G Block Married Quarters located in Triq L-‐Imhallef William Harding, and St. George's Barracks G Block and H Block located in Triq Pietru Darmenia, Pembroke are designated as Grade 2 of Structure Plan Policy UCO7 as per Scheduling of Property no. 880/09. Scheduling of Property no. 880/09 refers to the Pembroke Battery Buffer Zone in Triq Don Luigi Rigord & Triq Fra Francesco Wizzino, Pembroke. (Refer to Figure 13) Figure 13: Plan showing the scheduled military buildings (Source: Scheduling of Property no. 880/09) The Moynihan House, located at X-‐xatt ta’ San Gorg, is categorized as a Grade 2 proposed for scheduling property. A possible fougasse located on either side of St.George’s bay is said to have existed, however the whereabouts of it today are unknown [Spiteri 2005: 30]. Page 29 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS 3.3
July 2014 Description of Cultural Heritage Assets Archaeological field work was carried out within the proposed development site and within a 50 metre radius of the site. Any feature considered to be of cultural interest was recorded on the field walking sheets referred to in Appendix 6.1. The cultural features present within the proposed area of development and 50 metre radius are listed in Table 1 below and correspond to the feature numbers shown on Figure 14. Proposed or Feature Number Location Category Description Actual Protection Triq in-‐Nemes San Giljan Triq in-‐Nemes San Giljan Wied Harq Hammiem, San Giljan Wied Harq Hammiem, San Giljan Wied Harq Hammiem, San Giljan Wied Harq Hammiem, San Giljan Wied Harq Hammiem, San Giljan Wied Harq Hammiem, San Giljan Wied Harq Hammiem, San Giljan Ix-‐Xatt Ta’ San Gorg, San Giljan Ix-‐Xatt Ta’ San Gorg, San Giljan Ref no. 1 Ref no. 2 Ref no. 3 Ref no. 4 Ref no. 5 Ref no. 6 Ref no. 7 Ref no. 8 Ref no. 9 Ref no. 10 Ref no. 11 Bay Street
Complex
San Giljan Ref no. 12 Triq Santu Wistin San Giljan Ref no. 13 Architectural Villa Rosa Grade 1 Cultural Landscape Villa Rosa Gardens Grade 1 Ecological Wied Harq Hammiem Level 4 Ecological Wied Harq Hammiem Cave Level 1 Archaeological Cart-‐ruts Class B Archaeological Cart-‐ruts Class B Vernacular Rubble walls Grade 2 Vernacular Field rooms None Vernacular Masonry block/paving pathway Grade 3 Architectural Moynihan House Grade 2 Architectural Military Guardroom Grade 2 Engineering Letter Box Grade 2 Architectural Monks Convent of St. Augustine & Grade 2 St. Rita Chapel Table 2: List of the cultural features present within the proposed area of development and 50 metre radius and their proposed protection. Page 30 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 11 4 10 8 3 9 5
6 6 2 7 12 1 13 Figure 14: Plan showing the cultural features present within the proposed area of development and 50 metre radius. Page 31 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Ref No. 1 -‐ Villa Rosa Villa Rosa is a two-‐storey fully detached villa that is characterized by a belfry-‐like structure and sculptural design (refer to Figure Nos. 15-‐19). The villa is built on high ground and has surrounding terraced gardens. Villa Rosa dates to the modern period, specifically the British phase (1800 to 1964). The residential villa is scheduled by MEPA as a Grade 1 building (as per G.N. 755 dating to 1995) and is noted as having a very high Cultural Heritage Property Value Assessment by the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage in the National Inventory of the Cultural Property of the Maltese Islands (as per NICPMI Inv. No. 01216 dated 28 December 2012). The proposed development consists of works to be carried out immediately adjacent to the villa, in an existing asphalted area. The proposed development works may cause mechanical damage to the villa and will have an irreversible impact on the natural and cultural landscape surrounding the Villa Rosa. Cultural heritage remains may also be uncovered during the soil/material excavation works and/or the rock-‐cutting works. The villa appears to be in a good condition and the Grade 1 degree of protection assigned by relevant authorities should remain the same and relevant existing policies should be respected. Figure 15: Photograph of the Villa Rosa, taken facing South-‐West. Page 32 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Figure 16: Photograph of the Villa Rosa, taken facing North-‐East. Figure 17: Photograph of the Villa Rosa, taken facing North-‐West. Page 33 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Figure 18: Photograph of the Villa Rosa, taken facing South-‐East. Figure 19: Photograph of the back area of Villa Rosa, taken facing South. Page 34 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Ref. No. 2 -‐ Villa Rosa Gardens The surrounding terraced gardens of Villa Rosa are mainly found to the East and North of the villa. The Villa Rosa gardens appear to have undergone building activity, consisting of landscaping works, which may have disturbed the natural landscape. Despite this, the rock surface is visible in some areas and appears to have been largely untouched. (Refer to Figure Nos. 20-‐28) The proposed development consists of works to be carried out within the area of the Villa Rosa Gardens. The proposed development works will have an irreversible impact on the natural and cultural landscape surrounding the Villa Rosa. Cultural heritage remains may also be uncovered during the soil/material excavation works and/or the rock-‐cutting works. The Villa Rosa gardens are currently in a poor condition and require maintenance. The gardens are considered to be significant as they share the same context as the Villa Rosa. Due to this, the Villa Rosa Gardens should be protected and scheduled as a Grade 1 property by relevant authorities. Figure 20: Photograph of the Villa Rosa terraced gardens, taken facing North-‐East. Page 35 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Figure 21: Photograph of the Villa Rosa, taken facing South-‐West. Figure 22: Photograph of the Villa Rosa terraced gardens, showing the exposed bedrock, taken facing North-‐East. Page 36 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Figure 23: Photograph of the Villa Rosa terraced gardens, showing the exposed bedrock, taken facing South-‐East. Figure 24: Photograph of the Villa Rosa terraced gardens, showing the exposed bedrock, taken facing North-‐East. Page 37 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Figure 25: Photograph of the Villa Rosa terraced gardens, showing the exposed bedrock, taken facing South-‐West. Figure 26: Photograph of the Villa Rosa terraced gardens taken facing North-‐East. Page 38 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Figure 27: Photograph of the Villa Rosa terraced gardens, taken facing North-‐East. Figure 28: Photograph of the Villa Rosa terraced gardens, taken facing North-‐West. Page 39 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Ref. Nos. 3 & 4 -‐ Harq Hammiem Cave and Harq Hammiem Valley The cave was not accessible and the vegetation overgrowth present in the valley at the time of the archaeological survey would not allow for a proper field walking exercise. Despite this, Harq Hammiem Cave has a Level 1 degree of protection and it is surrounded by a buffer zone with a Level 4 designated degree of protection assigned by relevant authorities (as per G.N. 370 dating to 2008). The proposed development consists of works to be carried out in the area of the Harq Hammiem Cave. The proposed development works will have an irreversible impact on the Harq Hammiem Cave and Valley, in addition to this, unknown cultural heritage remains may be uncovered during the soil/material excavation works and rock-‐cutting works for the proposed development works, which may alter be context and degree of protection of the buffer zone of the cave. The Level 1 and Level 4 degree of protection assigned by relevant authorities should remain the same and relevant existing policies should be respected. Figure 29: Photograph of the Harq Hammiem cave buffer zone, taken facing South-‐West. Figure 30: Photograph of the Harq Hammiem cave buffer zone, taken facing East. Page 40 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Ref. Nos. 5 & 6 -‐ Cart-‐ruts Cart-‐ruts can be defined as parallel grooves that cut into the rock and are normally located on garrigue or Upper Coralline limestone landscapes. They form part of the cultural heritage assets under the category of archaeology and are an industrial or engineering type of feature. Cart-‐ruts are usually associated with quarries but the function of the cart-‐ruts is still unknown. An investigation in the area of study might shed more light on the function and date of the cart-‐ruts. Cart-‐ruts were found within the 50 metre radius of the proposed development site. One set of cart-‐
ruts were found to the west of the proposed development site, located in Wied Harq Hammiem. The cart-‐ruts consist of a pair of parallel rock-‐cut grooves found to be in a good condition, which are orientated in a North-‐East to South-‐West direction as was noted by Magro Conti and Saliba [2005: 209] (Refer to Figure Nos. 31 & 32). Another pair of cart ruts was noted during the field walking exercise. These cart-‐cuts are highly eroded and are oriented in a North-‐West to a South-‐
East direction. (Refer to Figure No. 33) The proposed development consists of works to be carried out in the vicinity of the cart-‐ruts. The proposed development works will have a low impact on the cart-‐ruts unless unknown cultural heritage remains are uncovered during the soil/material excavation works and/or rock-‐cutting works for the proposed development works, which may alter the context and degree of protection of the cultural features within the area. Overall, the cart-‐ruts are in a good condition and the Class B degree of protection assigned by relevant authorities should remain the same and relevant existing policies should be respected. Figure 31: Photograph of the cart ruts noted by Magro Conti and Saliba [2005], taken facing North-‐East. Page 41 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Figure 32: Photograph of the cart ruts noted by Magro Conti and Saliba [2005], taken facing South-‐West. Figure 33: Photograph of the cart ruts, taken facing North-‐West. Page 42 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Ref. No. 7 -‐ Rubble walls Rubble walls consist of irregular shaped stones placed one on top of the other and were held together by packing the irregular stones tightly. They are listed as a rural type of feature and form part of the cultural heritage assets in the category of architecture. The date of the rubble walls is unknown. The rubble walls were not accessible due to the vegetation, consisting of trees and shrubs, present in Harq Hammiem Valley, which has a Level 1 degree of protection (as per G.N. 370 dating to 2008). (Refer to Figure No. 34) Despite this, the rubble walls appear to be in a poor condition and should be designated as a Grade 2 level of protection. The proposed development consists of works to be carried out in the vicinity of the rubble walls. The proposed development works will have a low impact on the rubble walls unless unknown cultural heritage remains are uncovered during the soil/material excavation works and rock-‐cutting works for the proposed development works, which may alter the context and degree of protection of the cultural features of the area. Figure 34: Photograph of the rubble walls, taken facing South-‐East. Page 43 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Ref. No. 8 – Field Rooms Field rooms, dating to the last few decades, were noted within Harq Hammiem Valley (Refer to Figure Nos. 35 & 36). The field rooms appear to have no significance of cultural heritage and therefore no degree of protection is proposed. The proposed development consists of works to be carried out in the vicinity of the field rooms. The proposed development works will have no impact on the field rooms. Figure 35: Photograph of the field room found in a good condition, taken facing South-‐West. Figure 36: Photograph of the field room found in a very poor condition, taken facing North-‐West. Page 44 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Ref. No. 9 – Masonry block/paving pathway A pathway constructed out of masonry blocks and having masonry paving was noted (Refer to Figure Nos. 37-‐39). The feature could not be identified properly due to the vegetation present on site, which is protected by the Level 1 degree of protection of Harq Hammiem Valley. This possible feature could date to an earlier period but further investigation, regulated and directed by the relevant authorities, is required to identify the possible feature. The proposed development consists of works to be carried out in the vicinity of the possible feature. The proposed development works will have a low impact on the possible feature unless unknown cultural heritage remains are uncovered during the soil/material excavation works and/or rock-‐cutting works for the proposed development works, which may alter the context and degree of protection of the cultural features of the area. Figure 37: Photograph of the masonry blocks and paving, taken facing North. Page 45 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Figure 38: Photograph of the masonry blocks and paving, taken facing South-‐West. Figure 39: Photograph of the field room found in a very poor condition, taken facing North-‐East. Page 46 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Ref. No. 10 – Moynihan House The Moynihan House is categorized as a Grade 2 proposed for scheduling property (refer to Figure No. 40). The property is located at Ix-‐xatt ta’ San Gorg and is of architectural interest as it is a military dwelling that dates to the British Period. The proposed development consists of works to be carried out in the vicinity of the Moynihan House and will have a low impact on the Moynihan house unless unknown cultural heritage remains are uncovered during the soil/material excavation works and rock-‐cutting works for the proposed development works, which may alter the context and degree of protection of the cultural features of the area. The Moynihan House is currently in a poor condition and requires maintenance. The Moynihan house is found to be of significance, both architecturally and historically, as the building dates to the British period. In order to preserve the cultural landscape, the Moynihan House should be protected and scheduled as a Grade 2 property by relevant authorities. Figure 40: Photograph of the Moynihan House, taken facing North-‐East. Page 47 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Ref. No. 11 – Military Guardroom A military guardroom, located at Ix-‐xatt ta' San Gorg and designated as Grade 2 of Structure Plan Policy UCO7 as per Scheduling of Property no. 880/09, was noted (refer to Figure No. 41). The military guardroom is found to be of architectural significance as the building dates to the same British period. The proposed development consists of works to be carried out in the vicinity of the military guardroom and will have a low impact on the military guardroom unless unknown cultural heritage remains are uncovered during the soil/material excavation works and rock-‐cutting works for the proposed development works, which may alter the context and degree of protection of the cultural features of the area. The military guardroom is currently in a poor condition and requires maintenance. The Grade 2 degree of protection assigned by relevant authorities should remain the same and relevant existing policies should be respected. Figure 41: Photograph of the military guardroom, taken facing North-‐East. Page 48 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Ref. 12 -‐ Letter Box A letter box was noted within the premises of the Bay Street Complex. The letter box is a free-‐
standing monogram erased pillar, which is designated as Grade 2 as per Scheduling of Property no. 829/07 dated 10.09.07 (refer to Figure No. 42). The letter box is found to be of engineering significance. The proposed development consists of works to be carried out in the vicinity of the letter box and will have ŶŽ impact on the letter box as the feature is already within an area which had a high impact on the cultural and natural landscape of the area. The letter box is currently in a fair condition. The Grade 2 degree of protection assigned by relevant authorities should remain the same and relevant existing policies should be respected. Figure 42: Photograph of the letter box, taken facing South-‐East (left) and North-‐East (right). Page 49 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Ref. 13 -‐ Monks Convent of St. Augustine & St. Rita Chapel The convent and chapel known as the Monks Convent of St. Augustine & St. Rita Chapel is located at Triq Santu Wistin, San Giljan and is also designated as Grade 2 (as per G.N. 879/09 dating to 2009). (Refer to Figure No. 43) The proposed development consists of works to be carried out in the vicinity of the convent and chapel and will have a low impact as the convent and chapel are already within an area that had an impact on the cultural and natural landscape of the area. The convert and chapel appear to be in a good condition and the Grade 2 degree of protection assigned by relevant authorities should remain the same and relevant existing policies should be respected. Figure 43: Photograph of the Monks Convent of St. Augustine & St. Rita Chapel, taken facing South-‐West. Page 50 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS 3.4
July 2014 Archaeological potential and risk assessment of the proposed development site The archaeological survey was a non-‐intrusive study of the archaeological landscape in the area of study and accessibility was limited at times. The impacts of the proposed development works on the cultural features present within the proposed area of development and 50 metre radius are listed in Table 2 below and correspond to the feature numbers shown on Figure 14. Proposed Impact of Feature Impact Category Description Or Actual Proposed Number Significance Protection Development Ref no. 1 Architectural Villa Rosa Grade 1 High Ref no. 2 Cultural Landscape Villa Rosa Gardens Grade 1 High Ref no. 3 Ecological Wied Harq Hammiem Level 4 High/Moderate Ref no. 4 Ecological Wied Harq Level 1 Hammiem Cave High/Moderate Ref no. 5 Archaeological Cart-‐ruts Class B Low The proposed development will have a direct impact as the soil/material excavation works and rock-‐cutting works will result in a non-‐reversible intervention to the cultural landscape. The proposed development will have a direct impact as soil/material excavation works and rock-‐cutting works will result in a non-‐reversible intervention to the cultural landscape. The proposed development will have a direct impact as the soil/material excavation works and rock-‐cutting works will result in a non-‐reversible intervention to the natural and cultural landscapes. The proposed development will have a direct impact as the soil/material excavation works and rock-‐cutting works will result in a non-‐reversible intervention to the natural and cultural landscapes. The proposed development will have a visual impact on the natural and cultural landscapes. The proposed development might also have an indirect impact on the cultural heritage feature if unknown cultural heritage remains are uncovered during the soil/material excavation works and rock-‐cutting works. Page 51 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS Ref no. 6 Archaeological Cart-‐ruts Class B Low Ref no. 7 Vernacular Rubble walls Grade 2 Low Ref no. 8 Vernacular Field rooms None None Ref no. 9 Vernacular Masonry block/paving pathway Grade 3 Low Ref no. 10 Architectural Moynihan House Grade 2 Low Ref no. 11 Architectural Military Guardroom Grade 2 Low July 2014 The proposed development will have a visual impact on the natural and cultural landscapes. The proposed development might also have an indirect impact on the cultural heritage feature if unknown cultural heritage remains are uncovered during the soil/material excavation works and rock-‐cutting works. The proposed development will have a visual impact on the natural and cultural landscapes. The proposed development might also have an indirect impact on the cultural heritage feature if unknown cultural heritage remains are uncovered during the soil/material excavation works and rock-‐cutting works. None The proposed development will have a visual impact on the natural and cultural landscapes. The proposed development might also have an indirect impact on the cultural heritage feature if unknown cultural heritage remains are uncovered during the soil/material excavation works and rock-‐cutting works. The proposed development will have a visual impact on the natural and cultural landscapes. The proposed development might also have an indirect impact on the cultural heritage feature if unknown cultural heritage remains are uncovered during the soil/material excavation works and rock-‐cutting works. The proposed development will have a visual impact on the natural and cultural landscapes. The proposed development might also have an indirect impact on the cultural heritage feature if unknown cultural heritage remains are uncovered during the soil/material excavation works and rock-‐cutting works. Page 52 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS Ref no. 12 Engineering Letter Box Grade 2 Ref no. 13 Architectural Monks Convent of St. Grade 2 Augustine & St. Rita Chapel None Low July 2014 The cultural landscape of the feature has already been highly impacted by other developments. The proposed development will have a visual impact on the cultural landscape. Table 2: List of the cultural features present within the proposed area of development and 50 metre radius and the impacts of the proposed development works on the cultural features. Archaeological field work and desk-‐top research within the proposed development site did not result in new data. Within the proposed development site there are two known scheduled sites: Villa Rosa (Refer to Scheduling of Property no.755/95) and the Harq Hammiem Cave and its buffer zone (Refer to Scheduling of Property no.370/08). Bedrock was noted in the terraced gardens surrounding Villa Rosa (area referred to as Villa Rosa Gardens). The other part of the proposed development site, in the area of the buffer zone of Harq Hammiem Cave, was not accessible. The proposed development will have a direct impact on the Villa Rosa and the Villa Rosa Gardens (Refer to feature numbers 1 and 2, in Table Nos. 1 and 2, and Figure 14) and the Harq Hammiem Cave and Harq Hammiem Valley (Refer to feature numbers 3 and 4, in Table Nos. 1 and 2, and Figure 14). Archaeological field work within a 50 metre radius of the site did not result in new data. Cart-‐ruts were noted in desk-‐top research and their existence was confirmed during the archaeological field work. The proposed development might have an indirect impact on the remaining cultural heritage features (refer to feature numbers 5-‐13, in Table Nos. 1 and 2, and Figure 14). The archaeological survey has shown that the area of study does have features of cultural heritage. Scheduling and studies show an emerging cultural landscape from an area, which has known ecological and geological value. The ecological and geological values of the area of study are ideal for human activity in the past. In fact, the area of study appears to have had human activity dating to the prehistoric period and the modern period. From the archaeological survey carried out in the area of study one must note that it is evident that the discovery of archaeological features or remains within the area of study is possible since studies carried out within the last two decades have revealed the increasing importance of the cultural landscape. Page 53 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 4. EVALUATION Throughout the years, the only reference found within existing literature to cultural heritage features within the area of study were those related to the geological feature (Harq Hammiem Cave) and to the archaeological features (cart-‐ruts located within Harq Hammiem Valley). Despite this, the last three decades have revealed an increase in the known cultural heritage features within the area through studies. The Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) and the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage (SCH) have both noted the importance of the landscape and the cultural heritage features within it by scheduling procedures. From the field survey and the desk-‐top research it is the considered opinion of the undersigned that the cultural heritage assets present within the area of study are culturally significant and that potential archaeological monitoring/investigation can uncover new cultural heritage features and reveal further the contextual and interpretative significance of the cultural features and their surrounding landscape. The proposed development site should conform with the North Harbour Local Plan, with particular reference to policies NHPV 13 (Villa Rosa), NHSE07 (Strategic Views), NHCV02 (Protection of Archaeological Features), and NHCV01 (Protection of SACs, SSIs, AEIs, and AHLSs). (Refer to Appendix 6.2 for policy maps). The proposed development should also respect the relevant policies protecting scheduled property. This will ensure that the cultural landscape is subjected to the least intervention possible. Furthermore, the undersigned proposes that mitigation measures consisting of Archaeological Monitoring and/or Investigation are carried out should the proposed development be approved. Archaeological Monitoring and/or Investigation conditions imposed, regulated, and directed by the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage will prevent possible damage to existing cultural heritage assets and allow for the recording and conservation of unknown cultural heritage assets. Further to the field work and desk-‐top studies, it is in the opinion of the undersigned that the proposed development site should be subject to and in line with current relevant legislation and protocol. Ella Samut-‐Tagliaferro Approved Archaeologist July 2014 Page 54 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 5. BIBLIOGRAPHY Abela, G. F. 1647. Della descrittione di Malta, isola nel mare siciliano, con le sue antichita, ed altre notitie, 1984 Facsimilie Edition. Valletta: Midsea Books. Azzopardi, A. 1995. A new geography of the Maltese Islands. Malta: Progress Press Co. Ltd. Bruno, B. 2009. Roman and Byzantine Malta: Trade and Economy. Malta: Midsea Books. Ciantar, G. A. 1772. Malta Illustrata ovvero Descrizione di Malta. Malta. Cultural Heritage Act 2002, Malta. The Development Planning Act 1992, Malta. The Environmental Protection Act 1991, Malta. Evans, J. D. 1971. The prehistoric antiquities of the Maltese islands: a survey. London: Athlone Press. Magro Conti, J. and Saliba, P. C. eds., 2005. The significance of cart-‐ruts in ancient landscapes: a joint project of Heritage Malta, Restoration Unit, Malta Environment and Planning Authority, University of Malta, University of Urbino (Italy) and Aproteco (Spain) with the support of the Culture 2000 programme of the EU. Santa Venera: Midsea Books. Malta Environment and Planning Authority, Malta. National Inventory of Cultural Property of the Maltese Islands, Superintendence of Cultural Heritage, Malta. Saliba, P. C. 2008. An evaluation of rubble walls and terracing in the Maltese landscape. University of Malta: M.A. Dissertation. Spiteri, S. C. 1999. The Fougasse -‐ the stone mortar of Malta. Cordin: Print Services Ltd. The Structure Plan of the Maltese Islands 1997 (revised), Malta. Renfrew, C. & Bahn, P. 2004. Archaeology: Theories, Methods and Practice, 4th ed., London: Thames & Hudson. Trump, D. H. 2004. Malta: Prehistory and Temples, 2nd ed. Santa Venera: Midsea Books. Page 55 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 6. APPENDICES Page 56 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 6.1
Field walking sheets Page 57 | 80 12 March 2014
EST
14.486176, 14.485887
35.924618, 35.926074
EST
NA
NA
Villa Rosa and the Villa Rosa Gardens
0
9
0 0
NA
NA
NA
23,898 m2
48%
158m
151m
NA
NA
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Villa Rosa and the Villa Rosa Gardens
14.486514
35.924792
14.486622
35.925522
1
2
NA
Structure
Good
No
1
Terraced Gardens
Poor
No
2
Plan showing Villa Rosa marked in red with
surrounding terraced gardens referred to as
Villa Rosa Gardens.
Photo No.1 Photograph showing facade of
Villa Rosa taken facing South-West.
Photo No. 2 Photograph showing a part of the Villa
Rosa Gardens taken facing North-East.
Villa Rosa and the Villa Rosa Gardens have undergone building activity and have been disturbed, however,
the bedrock is visible and in some areas appears to have been largely untouched.
12 March 2014
EST
NA

12 March 2014
EST
NA
Harq Hammiem Valley
1 1
14,484916, 14.484717
35.924736, 35.925665
EST
NA
NA
NA
5
NA
NA
5292m2
50%
1
126m
42m
NA
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
Natural
Shrubs
✔
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Various
14.485344 Cart-ruts
35.925788
14.485467
Cart-ruts
35.925676
14.485420
35.924988 Rubble walls
14.485275
35.925464 Field Rooms
E 14.485353
35.925884 Masonry block/paving pathway
1
2
3
4
5
NA
Good
No
Good
No
2
Poor
No
3
Good, Ruined
No
4
Poor
No
5
1
NA
Photo No. 1
Photo No. 5
Photo No. 2
Photo No. 4
Sketch showing cultural features within the area.
Photo No. 3
Part of Harq Hammiem Valley falls within the 50 metre radius from the proposed development site. The
valley is protected and has retained natural characteristics of the landscape. Cultural heritage features are
found within this area showing the different periods during which human activity was carried out.
12 March 2014
EST
NA

12 March 2014
EST
NA
Harq Hammiem Valley, Cave and Buffer Zone
0 0
1 2
14.485852, 14.485795
35.926139, 35.926445
EST
NA
NA
NA
NA
13000m2
40%
130m
100m
NA
NA
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
Shrubs
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Harq Hammiem Cave
14.487335 Cave
35.927164
1
NA
Not accessible
No
1
NA
Photo No. 1 showing area
Harq Hammiem Cave
Plan showing the location of Harq Hammiem Cave marked in a dark
shade of grey.
The area of Harq Hammiem Cave and Buffer Zone were not accessible. The site appeared to be abandoned
and there was a lot of vegetation overgrowth.
EST
12 March 2014
NA

EST
12 March 2014
NA
Developed area surrounding Villa Rosa Grounds
4 5
1 0
NA
NA
NA
NA
EST
300m
50m
15000m2
80%
NA
NA
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Structures
14.487837
Dwelling
35.926745
14.487571
35.927251 Military Guardroom
14.488016
Letter Box
35.924853
14.486927 Monks Convent of St. Augustine
35.924219 & St. Rita Chapel
1
2
3
4
NA
Poor
No
Poor
No
2
Good
No
3
Good
No
4
1
NA
Photo No. 1
Photo No. 3
Photo No. 4
Photo No. 2
Plan showing the location of
the cultural heritage features
The area is developed but consists of cultural heritage features which date to the British period.
12 March 2014
EST
No

CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 6.2
North Harbour Local Plan Policy Maps Page 74 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 NHPV 13 – Villa Rosa Page 75 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 NHSE 07 – Strategic Views Page 76 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 NHCV 02 – Protection of Archaeological Features Page 77 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Page 78 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 Page 79 | 80 CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE VILLA ROSA GROUNDS July 2014 NHCV 01 – Protection of SACs, SSIs, AEIs, and AHLSs Page 80 | 80 Report on the Cultural Heritage
for the Environmental Planning Statement of the Proposed Development
of Cresta Quays and Moynihan House as part of ancillary facilities
related to the Villa Rosa Development
(TRK 148158 and TRK148196).
Kurt Balzan, Daniel Borg, Marlene Borg, Ernest Vella
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July 2014
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Introduction ............................................................................................................ 5
1.1 Terms of Reference ...................................................................................... 5
1.2 Location and Brief Description of the Site .................................................... 5
2. Report Compilation Method ................................................................................. 7
2.1 Methodology of Study ................................................................................... 7
2.2 Desk-Top Research ...................................................................................... 8
2.3 Site Survey .................................................................................................... 8
2.4 Recording Systems ....................................................................................... 9
2.5 Statutory Protection ...................................................................................... 9
2.5.1 Cultural Heritage Act ............................................................................. 9
2.5.2 Legal Notice 169 of 2004..................................................................... 10
2.5.3 Structure Plan Policies ........................................................................ 10
2.5.4 Scheduling ........................................................................................... 12
2.5.5 The European Landscape Convention (Florence Convention) ........... 13
2.5.6 The Burra Charter ................................................................................ 13
2.5.7 The Northern Harbour Local Plan ....................................................... 14
2.6 Difficulties .................................................................................................... 15
3. Cultural Landscape Assessment ....................................................................... 16
3.1 Toponomy ................................................................................................... 16
3.2 Historical Importance of the Area ............................................................... 18
3.2.1 Zone 1 ................................................................................................ 198
3.2.2 Zone 2 ............................................................................................... 210
3.2.3 Zone 3 ............................................................................................... 221
3.2.4 Postal Box scheduled as a Grade 2 Asset ........................................ 310
3.3 The Cultural Landscape ............................................................................ 321
4. Impacts and Mitigations.................................................................................... 332
References ............................................................................................................. 398
Appendix I: Catalogue of Cultural Features ........................................................... 442
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LIST OF F IGURES
Figure 1:
Areas covered by this cultural heritage assessment ............................... 6
Figure 2:
Scheduled Sites in relation to the areas being assessed. ..................... 12
Figure 3:
Northern Harbour Local Plan policies in relation to the areas being
assessed. ............................................................................................... 14
Figure 4:
Location of Place Names covered by this study .................................... 17
Figure 5:
Commercial Establishments and Cultural Features in Zone 1............. 198
Figure 6:
Zone 1 in the 1896 Survey Sheet No 45 ................................................ 19
Figure 7:
Beach rooms at St George’s Bay from a photo taken by Richard Ellis
from Villa Rosa (Ellis 2010) ................................................................ 2019
Figure 8:
British Period Houses in Zone 3............................................................. 22
Figure 9:
Moynihan and Dolphin House in 1896 Survey Sheet No 45 ............... 232
Figure 10: The changing landscape of St George’s Bay....................................... 343
Figure 11: Risk Assessment Map for the areas being assessed in this report ..... 354
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LIST OF PLATES
Plate 1:
Zone 1 which is mostly taken up by Cresta Quay .................................... 20
Plate 2:
Blocked Embrasure in Kinghts’ Period Entrenchment Wall (BSG14/003) ...
.................................................................................................................. 21
Plate 3:
Plaque commemorating the birth of Berkeley G.A. Moynihan in Moynihan
House. ................................................................................................... 243
Plate 4:
Vandalised Interior with debris on the floor of Moynihan House
(BSG14/005) ........................................................................................... 254
Plate 5:
The Internal features of Moynihan House (BSG14/005) are in relatively
good state despite the vandalism. Blocked original arches are still visible.
................................................................................................................ 265
Plate 6:
Spiral Staircase at Moynihan House (BSG14/005). Photo taken in 2003. ..
................................................................................................................ 276
Plate 7:
Despite the blocked up apertures, important architectural features are still
intact, like the arched window and chimney on the roof of Moynihan House
(BSG14/005) ........................................................................................... 287
Plate 8:
Blocked archway with a flat cornice typical of early British Military
architecture in Malta. ............................................................................. 298
Plate 9:
War Department Property Marker No 1 opposite Moynihan House
(Photo taken in 2003) ........................................................................... 3029
Plate 10: New promenade walkway, which must have led to the loss of the Property
Marker................................................................................................... 3029
Plate 11: Scheduled Pillar Box located at the Ground Floor Level of Bay Street
Complex ................................................................................................. 310
Plate 12: Detail of pillar box showing no signs of a royal cypher or crown. .......... 310
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1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Terms of Reference
In compliance with Maltese legislation and within the framework of planning
policies, the Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) requires that an
Environmental Planning Statement is carried out with respect of the proposed
development at Villa Rosa in St George’s Bay.
Archaeology Services Co-operative Ltd (ASC) has been commissioned to
carry out the base line studies relative to cultural heritage by Garnet Investments and
ESRLI. This report is based on the Terms of Reference issued by MEPA on 4th
February 2014 and comments by MEPA and the Superintendence of Cultural
Heritage (SCH) after a draft report was handed in May 2014. ASC was not involved
in the compilation of the previous report but has been commissioned as a response
to these comments.
The scope of this report is, therefore, to:


Assess the cultural heritage within the zones of TRK151497 and
TRK148196*.
Identify the significance of:
(i)
Grade 2 scheduled letter box (GN No. 829/07 GG Date
10.09.07),
(ii)
Grade 1 scheduled Military Entrenchment (GN No. 628/08 GG
Date 21.07.08) abutting the Cresta Quay
This report should be considered as an addendum to a previous report
compiled by Ms Ella Sammut Tagliaferro, and this cultural heritage assessment
in this report has been carried out independently.
1.2 Location and Brief Description of the Site
This report is focusing on two areas flanking St George’s Bay that will be
affected by proposed development TRK151497 and TRK148196 mentioned above.
TRK151497 (EA00016/13) refers to the proposed demolition of existing
buildings and the construction of a Hotel with ancillary facilities (to be developed
below existing pavement level) at Cresta Quay, Triq Id-Dragunara, San Ġiljan, Malta
(Zone 1 in Figure 1). Given that SCH requires the assessment of the entrenchment
wall, the garigue west of the above area (Zone 2 in figure 1) will also be assessed.
TRK 148196 (EA00016/13) refers to the proposed demolition of existing
buildings and construction of commercial block consisting of Semi basement parking,
Class 6 and Class 5 uses as well as a Language School at Dolphin House and
adjacent corner property, Ix Xatt ta’ San Ġorg, San Ġiljan, Malta (Zone 3 in Figure
1). The latter property is known as Moynihan House.
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Sites of Proposed Development
Area of influence for Zone 2
Figure 1: Areas covered by this cultural heritage assessment
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2. R EPORT C OMPILATION M ETHOD
2.1 Methodology of Study
An Environmental Impact Statement is required to cover the area and its
surroundings. Such an evaluation is required to provide information regarding
provisions for environmental protection including, among others, the protection of
archaeological and cultural (both vernacular and rural, including rubble walls, huts,
wells, irrigation channels, ancient quarrying sites and farmhouses) features.
This report is based on findings from what is technically referred to as Ground
Reconnaissance. This method of investigation primarily involves actual fieldwork, and
incorporates the consultation of documentary sources and place-name evidence
[Renfrew & Bahn 1991: 63]. The fieldwork carried out consisted of a site-surface
survey, or field-walking, in order to locate and record the whereabouts of sites and
features. No aerial reconnaissance or sub-surface surveys, including excavations,
were carried out.
This report is the result of a site-surface survey supplemented by desktop
research. This work was carried out in July 2014 by qualified archaeologists from
ASC. The report compilation method was developed after an initial site visit to
examine the general landscape of the area.
The survey was undertaken by Kurt Balzan BA Archaeology and English,
Diploma Public Administration; Daniel Borg BA (Hons) Archaeology, MA; Marlene
Borg BA (Hons) Archaeology, MA; Ernest Vella BA (Hons) Archaeology, MA; of
Archaeology Services Co-operative Ltd. On-site surveys were carried out on 9 and
10 July 2014.
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2.2 Desk-Top Research
The general works of Abela (1647) and Wettinger (2000) were consulted, as
well as Evans (1971), Trump (1997), Sagona (2002), and Spiteri (1994). Other
publications have also been consulted and are listed in the bibliography.
The Annual Reports on the Workings of the Museums Department (MARs),
published from 1904 onwards, were also examined, providing no references for the
area in question. Specific works regarding the different settlements which are
affected by the proposed development were also consulted in order to further our
understanding of the area under consideration as well as its sites and features.
Survey sheets starting from 1898 to 1915 available at the Chief
Draughtsman’s Office of the Works Department were also consulted to study the
changes in landscape and to date some of the features.
2.3 Site Survey
The site survey covered the area of the three zones as described above. The
survey was limited to surface investigation, leaving out any possible cultural heritage
buried beneath the ground as well as underwater. We therefore cannot exclude the
possibility that archaeological remains do exist beneath the surface of the site
surveyed or underwater. Għar Ħarq Ħammiem, which lies beneath Zone 3 has not
been surveyed but the it has been included in desktop research while impacts of the
proposed development have been taken into consideration and discussed.
Given the particular nature of the zones being assessed, the site survey varied
from the conventional surveys usually carried out for such studies. During the site
survey the following cultural features were considered:

architectural structures and the remains of structures;

evidence of rock-cutting and rock-cut chambers;

piles of stones or dispersed large stones;

caves or cavities in the rock-faces;

rock-cut features, quarry marks, and cart-ruts;

important public and private buildings with particular architectural features

particular architectural features in present structures that suggest specific
importance.
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2.4 Recording Systems
Any feature considered to be of cultural interest was recorded on the sheets
described above including all the information required as detailed in Appendix 1.
2.5 Statutory Protection
The importance of the conservation of the identified sites and features has
been identified with reference to relevant legislation standards, guidance and
practices. These include the Structure Plan for the Maltese Islands that refer to the
grading of archaeological sites and buildings, Development Planning Act 1992, the
Cultural Heritage Act and the Northern Harbour Local Plan.
2.5.1 Cultural Heritage Act
This Act provides overall protection to “all movable or immovable objects of artistic,
architectural, historical, archaeological, ethnographic, palaeontological and geological
importance and includes information or data relative to cultural heritage pertaining to Malta or to
any other country” (section 2). In section 3 it also specifies that “For the purposes of this
Act, an object shall not be deemed to form part of the cultural heritage unless it has existed in
Malta, including the territorial waters thereof, or in any other country, for fifty years, or unless it
is an object of cultural, artistic, historical, ethnographic, scientific or industrial value, even if
contemporary, that is worth preserving”.
“No person shall make any interventions on such cultural property or classes thereof
without first having obtained a permit therefore from the Superintendent” (Section 44.3).
Applications are determined subject to the results of prior investigation: “Before
determining an application under subarticle (3) hereof the Superintendent may require such
information including the results of such tests, examinations or inspection by such persons
accredited under this Act for the purpose as may be required by the Superintendent” (Section
44.4).
The restrictions on archaeological excavations is stated in Section 43(1)
whereby “Archaeological or palaeontological excavations or explorations on land as well as in
the territorial waters or in the contiguous zone of Malta can only be made by the
Superintendent, or with written permission of the Superintendent”. Chance discoveries of
archaeological remains are also regulated by Section 43(2), “Any person who, even
accidentally, discovers any object, site or building to which this Act applies in accordance with
article 3, shall immediately inform the Superintendent, keep the object found in situ, and shall
not for a period of six working days after informing the Superintendent proceed with any work on
the site where the object of cultural property is discovered”. The details about rights and
obligations by all parties in the eventuality of an archaeological discovery are
described in Sections 43(3), 43(4), 43(5), 43(6), 43(7).
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2.5.2 Legal Notice 169 of 2004
The Rubble Walls and Rural Structures (Conservation and Maintenance)
Regulations as amended by LN 169 of 2004 protects all rubble walls and nonhabitable rural structures in “view of their historical and architectural importance, their
exceptional beauty, their affording a habitat for flora and fauna, and their vital importance in the
conservation of the soil and water”. Walls may be sensitively repaired without MEPA’s
prior authorisation. Certain areas may also be declared to be Rubble Wall
Conservation Areas in which no alterations to the location or construction of rubble
walls and the traditional methods of their repair and maintenance will be permitted
without the written approval of MEPA. In such Conservation Areas, the Minister for
the Environment may order the owner or occupier to repair and re-erect all the rubble
walls within the area, and to continue to maintain them. The dismantling of the wall
requires a permit from MEPA.
2.5.3 Structure Plan Policies
The Structure Plan contains policies that refer to the grading of archaeological
sites and buildings.
Policy ARC 1 states that in Local Plans within Rural Conservation Areas the
Planning Authority may identify and designate Areas and Sites of Archaeological
Importance. Structure Plan Policy ARC 2, indicates that if an area is considered to be
of top priority conservation (Class A), no development will be allowed that would
adversely affect the natural setting of these monuments or sites. A minimum buffer
zone around the periphery of the site will need to be established in which no
development will be allowed. Features identified as Class B are regarded as very
important and should be preserved at all costs. Adequate measures to be taken to
preclude any damage from immediate development. For features that are listed as
Class C, every effort must be made for preservation, but may be covered up after
proper investigation, documentation and cataloguing. Provision for subsequent
access shall be provided. Class D features are similar to numerous others and must
be properly recorded and catalogued before covering or destroying. Class E has
been introduced in the Northwest Local Plan (approved in 2006). This deals with a
site or area in which the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage or MEPA may have
some archaeological interest. Should MEPA or the Superintendence have such an
interest, the applicant proposing development in that location will be required to
undertake an investigation, including excavation, if necessary. If following
investigation, the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage considers the site to be of
archaeological value, MEPA will normally refuse development permission if the
proposed development would lead to the destruction of the site, or require the
development to be modified so that the archaeological value of the site is protected.
The permissible effects of the proposed development on archaeological
remains are regulated by policy ARC 3 that states that “development affecting ancient
monuments and important archaeological areas and sites, including areas and sites having
such potential, will normally be refused if there is an overriding case for preservation. Where
there is no overriding case for preservation, development of such sites will not normally be
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permitted until adequate opportunities have been provided for the recording and, where
desirable, the excavation of such sites”.
All other archaeological features listed in the catalogue may be included in the
National Protective Inventory of the Planning Authority according to policy ARC 7 for
which protection is granted by means of policy ARC 6.
Rural buildings and rubble walls are protected by the Rural Conservation
Areas policies and policy UCO 7. Policy UCO 7 establishes the grading of listed
buildings in Urban Conservation Areas and regulates works that are acceptable in
such buildings.
In the case of architectural heritage the following protection levels apply:
Grade 1 buildings are of outstanding architectural or historical interest that
shall be preserved in their entirety. Demolition or alterations which impair
the setting or change the external or internal appearance, including
anything contained within the curtilage of the building, will not be allowed.
Any interventions allowed must be directed to their scientific restoration
and rehabilitation. Internal structural alterations will only be allowed in
exceptional circumstances where this is paramount for reasons of keeping
the building in active use.
Grade 2 protection applies to buildings of some architectural or historical
interest or which contribute to the visual image of an Urban Conservation
Area. Permission to demolish such buildings will not normally be given.
Alterations to the interior will be allowed if proposed to be carried out
sensitively and causing the least detriment to the character and
architectural homogeneity of the building.
Grade 3 buildings have no historical importance and are of relatively minor
architectural interest. Demolition may be permitted provided the
replacement building is in harmony with its surroundings.
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2.5.4 Scheduling
In the area of study there is a varying scenario which reflects the cultural
landscape of St George’s Bay. The scheduled features are shown in Figure 3 and
listed below:

Għar Ħarq Ħammiem and its buffer zone which lies underneath
Moynihan House. This Site of Scienctific Importance has been granted
a Level 1 degree of protection, given its unique ecological, geological
and historical characteristics.

The Knights’ Period entrenchment, stretching from St George’s Bay to
Spinola Bay has been Scheduled as Grade 2.

A letterbox in St George’s Bay has been also scheduled as a Grade 2
cultural assett.

Moynihan House, in Zone 3, is being proposed as deserving a Grade 2
level of protection by MEPA.
Site of Proposed Development
Area of Influence for Zone 1
Figure 2: Scheduled Sites in relation to the areas being assessed.
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2.5.5 The European Landscape Convention (Florence Convention)
The Florence Convention signed by all members of the Council of Europe, and
therefore by Malta as well, clearly defines landscape and is aware that “sustainable
development based on a balanced and harmonious relationship between social needs,
economic activity and the environment” must be achieved (European Landscape
Convention 2000: 1). It also maintains that “the landscape is an important part of the
quality of life of people everywhere” and that it is a “key element of individual and social wellbeing and that its protection, management and planning entails rights and responsibilities for
everyone” (European Landscape Convention 2000: 1).
According to this Convention landscape “means an area, as perceived by people,
whose character is the results of the action and interaction of natural and/or human factors” and
covers “natural, rural, urban and peri-urban areas” (European Landscape Convention
2000: 2).
2.5.6 The Burra Charter (The Australia ICOMOS charter for the conservation of
places of cultural significance)
The Burra Charter provides guidance for the conservation and management of
places of cultural significance. It states that “Places of cultural significance enrich people’s
lives, often providing a deep and inspirational sense of connection to community and landscape,
to the past and to lived experiences… They are irreplaceable and precious”. Such places
must therefore be conserved for present and future generations.
The Charter promotes a vigilant approach to change: “do as much as necessary
to care for the place and to make it useable, but otherwise change it as little as possible so that
its cultural significance is retained”. Places of cultural significance are made up of fabric,
that is all physical materials constituting them like building interiors, excavated
material, fixtures and components. Such fabric should be disturbed as little as
possible, even for study and documentation purposes.
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2.5.7. The Northern Harbour Local Plan
The areas being assessed are affected by a number of policies within the
framework of the Northern Harbour Local Plan as shown in Figure 3.
Site of Proposed Development
Area of Influence for Zone 1
Figure 3: Northern Harbour Local Plan policies in relation to the areas being assessed.
Zone 1 is affected by NHRL03, which discusses the use of coastal areas for
leisure purposes. Zones 1 and 2 are affected by NHCV03 which designates these
zones are protected as coastal and marine environments.
Moynihan House in Zone 3, has been earmarked as an Entertainment Priority
Area by Policy NHPV 05, while Dolphin House within the same zone, falls in the Villa
Rosa/Xatt ta’ San Gorg Policy, NHPV13. While the former policies do not affect
culture heritage the latter policy partly discusses the role of Għar Ħarq Ħammiem
within the Entertainment Priority Area, in that “The sensitive location and access of the
Scheduled Level 1 Cave and its buffer area must not be encroached upon by development in
Zone A. Excavation works should be limited to within the boundary of Zone A in order that the
cave and valley designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) are not affected in any
way. No activities from Zone A shall be allowed to encroach into the non-developable protected
valley area to the north of Zone A.”
According to Map PV4 of the Northern Harbour Local Plan, Zone A includes
Dolphin House in Zone 3 of the area of study. Given that Moynihan House is
proposed for scheduling the extent of Zone A into the area covered by Moynihan
House may be considered, but is currently not effective.
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2.6 Difficulties
All three zones covered by this report presented their own constraints during
the survey. Zone 1, has been transformed into a lido and therefore it has been over
developed, leaving little traces of the original shore line. There was limited access to
this zone. Adjacent to it is Zone 2, which is an area of garigue with no access.
The façade of Dolphin House in Zone 3 has been covered in cement, so its
characteristics of the original fabric of the 19th century building on the exterior are not
visible but still preserved. We had no access to the interior of Dolphin House.
Moynihan House, was also partly inaccessible. A number of rooms are full of
debris and rubbish, parts of which are inaccessible due to the presence of animal
carcasses or blocked entrances. The ground floor level of Moynihan House could not
be reached. Nonetheless original architectural features dating from the 19th century
were observed and recorded. The history of this complex and architectural features
still retain the same cultural significance.
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3.
C ULTURAL L ANDSCAPE A SSESSMENT
Archaeological research is increasingly concerned with historical landscapes.
The whole of our landscape, rural and urban, is a vast historical document. Such
approaches aim at the preservation of historically important landscapes, especially
when relating to arrangements of archaeological remains within the landscape. The
historical landscape considers not only the important sites, but also the ‘flora, fauna,
topography, geology and scenery, as well as spiritual matters such as aesthetics, artistic and
literary associations, folklore and tradition.’ [Darvill et al. 1993: 571].
3.1 Toponomy
A number of place-names have been identified from the survey sheet or other
literature in the proposed area of development and its immediate surroundings (refer
to Figure 4). Toponomy, can be a very useful tool to reconstruct past landscapes as
they give a hint of past land uses, tenure names, type of vegetation, and also
topographical features that existed in the area. Below is a list of these place-names
and related information according to the tunnel segment.
Wied Ħarq il-Ħammiem
and Dragonara
Although there is no reference to the area in
Wettinger 2000, Gian Frangisk Abela’s Della
Descrittione di Malta, published in the 17th
century mentions two interesting toponoyms
(book 1:27). The first refers to Harq Hamiem,
which, according to Abela, refers to the
fissure that gave access to the cave and
through which doves used to enter to nest;
hence
Harq
Hamiem
meaning
the
fissure/aperture of the doves.
The second toponym refers to the nearby
peninsula known as Dragonara. In the same
reference Abela states that the water inside
the cave was believed to sound like the
breathing of some monster. He is of the
opinion that in reality the name Dragonara is
derived from the presence of large eels which
may have bred in the waters of the cave
(book1:27).
It is also noted that the cave has been
variously
referred
to
Harq/Hark/Chark
Hamiem/Hammiem or il-Hamiem / el
Hamiem. In Maltese, ‘Harq’ is a fissure
(Serracino-Inglott: Il-Miklem Malti, Vol 4,
1977) and the other forms are variant
spellings of this. ‘Hamiem’ in Maltese is
pigeon while ‘Hammiem’ is a vessel for
storing heat (Aquilina: Maltese-English
Dictionary, Vol.1, 1987).
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However, the original Arabic meaning of
‘Hamm’ from which ‘Hammiem’ is derived is a
large vat for cooling water (Serracino-Inglott:
Il-Miklem Malti, Vol 4, 1977); this may or may
not be related to the presence of a large body
of water in the cave.
Il-Bajja ta’ San Ġorġ
Referring to St George’s Barracks erected in
the late 19th century for use by the British
garrison in Malta
Figure 4: Location of Place Names covered by this study
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3.2 Historical Importance of the Area
Most of the land uses in the area date from the latter half of the 20th century.
Prior to this, human activity seems to have been mainly military, with military
installations belonging to the Knights’ and British period still extant. Should there
have been any evidence of previous habitation or utilisation, this has been obliterated
by intensive development from the building of the British Barracks and Married
Quarters to the development of the area into one of Malta’s main entertainment
spots.
The cultural features recorded in this cultural assessment, are described
below and listed in Table 1.
Site Code
BSG14/001
BSG14/002
BSG14/003
BSG14/004
BSG14/005
BSG14/006
BSG14/007
BSG14/008
Location
Bajja ta' San Gorg,
San Giljan
Bajja ta' San Gorg,
San Giljan
Bajja ta' San Gorg,
San Giljan
Bajja ta' San Gorg,
San Giljan
Bajja ta' San Gorg,
San Giljan
Bajja ta' San Gorg,
San Giljan
Bajja ta' San Gorg,
San Giljan
Bajja ta' San Gorg,
San Giljan
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Category
Site Description
(Address)
Proposed or Actual Protection
Protection
Vernacular
Room
Grade 2
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Vernacular
Room
Grade 2
Military
Knights’ Period
Entrenchment Wall
Grade 2, GN 628/08
Rock-Cut
Surface Quarrying
Grade 3
Architecture
Moynihan House
Grade 2
Grade 2
Grade 2
Grade 2
Military
Military
Architecture
War Department
Property Marker
War Department
Property Marker
Dolphin House
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3.2.1 Zone 1
Zone is partly made up the original shore line, but has been mostly developed
by commercial establishments, as shown in Figure 5. The only remaining structures,
which have not been destroyed or completely renovated are BSG14/001 and
BSG14/002. These structures, along with the others that have been lost were not
visible in the 1897 Survey Sheet yet, partly reproduced in Figure 6 below.
Figure 5: Commercial Establishments and Cultural Features in Zone 1
Figure 6: Zone 1 in 1896 Survey Sheet No 45
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A photo taken from Villa Rosa by Richard Ellis some time in the early 20th
century not later than 1930 (Ellis’ year of death), shows that a number of structures
had been erected on the southern flank of St George’s Bay as reproduced in Figure
7. These included BSG14/001 and BSG14/002. Therefore both structures were built
between the end of the 19th Century and first two decades of the 20th Century. During
the survey both rooms were inaccessible, and no further information could be
retrieved. However, given the characteristics of the exterior, they deserve a Grade 2
Level of Protection, as a field room in the Maltese countryside would deserve. In their
own way, these beach structures are also part of Maltese vernacular architecture.
Figure 7: Beach rooms at St George’s Bay from a photo taken by Richard Ellis from Villa Rosa
(Ellis 2010)
The rest of the zone, as shown in Plate 1, has been taken up by Cresta Quay
Lido and Water Sports establishment. These two features will not be affected
development since they are outside the boundary of the
Plate 1: Zone 1 which is mostly taken up by Cresta Quay
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3.2.2 Zone 2
St George’s Bay was one of the possible landing grounds for corsair attacks.
That is why St George’s Bay was fortified with one of the De Redin towers, located
on the northern headland of the bay (presently not visible from the exterior since it is
within a hotel structure).
Grandmaster Pinto fortified further the area by financing the construction of an
entrenchment wall (BSG14/003) at the flank of St George’s Bay (Spiteri 1994: 575).
This stretched from St George’s Bay (in Zone 2) to Spinola Bay, and was reinforced
by another entrenchment in Balluta Bay. Remains of this entrenchment wall are still
visible and have been scheduled as a Grade 2 cultural heritage asset. The
entrenchment may have stretched right up to the shore. However a part of the wall
was rebuilt as a boundary wall of the Dragonara Complex, with a doorway for access.
Parts of the entrenchment have visible embrasures that have now been blocked
since this wall is used as a boundary wall, as described above and as shown in Plate
2.
Plate 2: Blocked Embrasure in Kinghts’ Period Entrenchment Wall
(BSG14/003)
The garigue area in Zone 2, typically has areas where surface quarrying has
taken place (BSG14/004). This surface quarryingextended to outside the area of
study. Dating such features is currently impossible, however, given the nearby
entrenchment, one might suggest that these quarries provided stone for the
entrenchment. In these quarries one could notice tool marks especially wedge marks.
A particular mark shows the negative imprint of two blocks that bear the dimensions
- 21 -
of the stones used for the entrenchments. This further suggests the link between the
quarry and the entrenchment.
3.2.3 Zone 3
Zone 3 covers three British Period houses which partly lie on the buffer zone
of the Protection Area of Għar Ħarq Ħammiem. Moynihan House and Dolphin House,
shown in Figure 8, are two of the oldest buildings in the area. They are built in an
austere military Victorian style, possibly developed and designed by the Royal
Engineers. The buildings are visible in the 1897 Survey Sheet, partly reproduced in
Figure 9 below. These houses are important since they are of a Victorian type of
architecture and were among the first to be built in the area, that was initially used by
the British in the 1850s when they Pembroke Shooting Ranges were developed.
Figure 8: British Period Houses in Zone 3
No records have been found about Dolphin House (BSG14/008), but it must
have had a similar use to Moynihan House, which together with Sebha house (lying
to the north of Zone 3) most possibly preceded the Barrack Blocks and Married
Quarters built to the north of these structures.
- 22 -
Figure 9: Moynihan and Dolphin House in 1896 Survey Sheet No 45
Moynihan House (BSG14/005) was surely built in the early 1860s since a
plaque on the eastern façade indicates that in 1865 it was the birthplace of Berkeley
G. A Moynihan (Plate 3). His father, Andrew Moynihan VC, a hero of the Crimean
War, was posted to Malta in the 1830s 1863 with the Second Battalion of the King’s
8th Regiment where he was musketry instructor for the Island, and died from ‘Malta
Fever’ in 1867. The father has been buried at Ta’ Braxia Cemetery (Milehan 2000:
56-67; Griffith 2014). The son became Lord Moynihan and became an internationally
renowned surgeon (Hughes 165: 191) who visited Malta a number of times during his
career (Abela, A.E. 1993).
- 23 -
Plate 3: Plaque commemorating the birth of Berkeley G.A. Moynihan
in Moynihan House.
The Plaque reads
BERKELY GEORGE ANDREW MOYNIHAN
(1865-1936)
1ST BARON MOYNIHAN OF LEEDS K.C.M.G.C.B.M.S. P.R.C.S.,
SON OF CAPTAIN ANDREW MOYNIHAN. V.C.,
1ST KING’S REGIMENT OF FOOT,
AND EILEEN ANNE (PARKIN), HIS WIFE,
WAS BORN HERE
- 24 -
The interior of the house is in a poor state of preservation. A number of
modifications have been carried out to the exterior with a number of doorways and
windows being blocked up. The large internal spaces have been divided into a
number of smaller units for the building to be used as an administrative office in
WW2 and later as a guesthouse. Most of the walls, particularly on the ground floor,
have been completely tiled over and, in the last twenty years, the inside of the
building was gutted by fire. Most of the later additions have been vandalised as
shown in Plate 4.
Plate 4: Vandalised Interior with debris on the floor of Moynihan House (BSG14/005)
- 25 -
In spite of these modifications, a large number of important internal features
are still extant. All of the roofs are authentic, consisting of ceiling slabs (xorok)
supported by beams. In the original plan, most of the internal spaces were large
rooms with large arched entrances. Although most of these have been walled up, the
outlines of these arches are still visible as in Plate 5.
Plate 5: The Internal features of Moynihan House (BSG14/005) are in relatively good state despite the
vandalism. Blocked original arches are still visible.
- 26 -
A beautifully worked stone spiral staircase leads from the first floor to the
rooftop; access to this staircase has been walled up. This staircase was accessible in
2003 (Plate 6), while now it could not be reached due to debris. On the roof there is a
small room with a flagstone floor from which the spiral staircase leads down to the
blocked doorway. The chimneybreasts are still in a good state of preservation as
shown in Plate 7.
Plate 6: Spiral Staircase at Moynihan House (BSG14/005). Photo taken in 2003.
- 27 -
Plate 7: Despite the blocked up apertures, important architectural features are still
intact, like the arched window and chimney on the roof of Moynihan House
(BSG14/005)
As shown in the description above, although the building has lain derelict for
about twenty years, except for the ground floor level of the western building which is
being used by the Malta Tourism Authority, it still retains important features of
Victorian architecture. Despite the modern accretions that have been added in the
garden at the back of the building, the building still retains important elements as
shown in Plate 8.
- 28 -
Plate 8: Blocked archway with a flat cornice typical of early British Military
architecture in Malta.
The unique building form, a clear manifestation of the early Victorian simple
austere style of which very few examples are extant on the island, is sufficient to
warrant protection as a Grade 2 building. The importance of the substantial number
of features distributed throughout the building and the cumulative effect of such
features also mandates a Grade 2 level of protection as proposed by MEPA. In
addition, Grade 2 protection is also justified on the basis of the age of the building
and its context.
Moynihan House also incorporates two War Department markers (WD 3 BSG14/006 and WD 2 - BSG14/007). A third one (WD 1) used to be located across
the road from the principal façade. This has been recorded in 2003 but has after
renovations of the promenade this was removed and is now lost as shown in Plates
9 and 10. These features further enhance the military character of the area serving
as a further argument for the total protection at Grade 2 of the building and its
environs.
- 29 -
Plate 9: War Department Property Marker No 1
opposite Moynihan House (Photo taken in 2003)
- 30 -
Plate 10: New promenade walkway, which must
have led to the loss of the Property Marker
3.2.4 Postal Box scheduled as a Grade 2 Asset
The comments submitted by SCH after the first draft of the EPS was handed
to MEPA, remarked that the “assessment does not identify and assess three items of cultural
heritage significance Grade 2 scheduled letter box (GN No. 829/07 GG Date 10.09.07).” The letter
box, which is one of 160 in the Maltese Islands is situated in the groundfloor of Bay
Street Complex, as shown in Plate 11. These cast-iron post boxes are a legacy of
the British period in the Maltese islands. In this case the pillar box is plain with no
royal cypher or crown, as shown in Plate 12.
Given its location in Bay Street Complex, this letter box will not be affected by
the proposed development of Villa Rosa.
Plate 11: Scheduled Pillar Box located at the
Ground Floor Level of Bay Street Complex
- 31 -
Plate 12: Detail of pillar box showing no signs of
a royal cypher or crown.
3.3 The Cultural Landscape
All archaeological and historical sites and features form part of the landscape
which surrounds them, and any survey of the cultural heritage has to study a site’s
context as well as the site itself. No cultural future is isolated from the fields and
geographical features which surround it, and on which it depends, to varying
degrees. Every site is a piece of local history, embedded in its immediate cultural
landscape and relating to the area around it [Barker 1993:254]. The phrase "cultural
landscape" does not mean a special type of landscape, but rather a way of seeing
landscapes that emphasizes the interaction between human beings and nature over
time. The main value of the cultural heritage in the area lies in the information it can
yield regarding past settlement patterns, as well as the indications regarding land-use
patterns.
The cultural landscape at St George’s Bay is very particular and reflects
Maltese architecture and history of the last 200 years. To the North, the bay
accommodates the earliest British military structures built in the area. While housing
important historical persons like the Moynihans, they acted as important ancillary
buildings to the adjacent barracks. Although in a state of ruins with modern
accretions, these structures should be considered in their wider military context of the
St Julians area, as well to that of the Maltese Islands.
On the other side of the bay, lie a number of altered structures which were
most possibly used previously as recreations rooms. This reflects the changing
landscape from a military one to an entertainment one. To the north west of the bay,
lie the remains of a Knights Period entrenchment. Again, though heavily encroached
upon by modern structures, and partially destroyed, they are an essential part of
Maltese history of military architecture.
- 32 -
4. I MPACTS AND M ITIGATIONS
The least affected area will be Zone 2 given that it will be fenced up and
remain inaccessible during construction of the proposed development. no
development will take place in this area. However, should it be used a storage or
parking for heavy vehicles, this will also be impacted. Garigue areas may be lost. The
entrenchment will also not be impacted, although the manoeuvring of heavy vehicles
near it may endanger its stability. It is suggested that the surface quarries are
properly surveyed and mapped to maintain a record of such features, should they be
damaged during works. This is being suggested since these might be related to the
construction of the entrenchment wall.
In Zone1, the modern structures used by the commercial establishment will be
redeveloped, while the two rooms BSG14/001 and BSG14/002 will not be affected,
since theu will not be destroyed. Moreover, their context has already been affected
by the commercial establishments on both sides, so they will not be affected any
further. the 2 remaining beach rooms will also be lost. The building stones in fake
rustication could be kept for the use in other restoration projects of similar buildings.
The most sensitive zone in the areas that were assessed is Zone 3. The
destruction of Moynihan House and Dolphin House will lead to the loss of potential
Grade 2 Buildings which are an essential element for the Cultural Landscape of St
George’s Bay. Therefore the Cultural Landscape will be adversely impacted upon as
shown in Figure 10 below.
Figure 11 shows a Risk Assessment Heritage Map that was required in the
Terms of Reference, while Table 1 2 describes the impacts envisaged by this
development on the zones being assessed in this report.
- 33 -
Figure 10: The changing landscape of St George’s Bay.
- 34 -
(a) The northern flank of St
George’s Bay at the turn of
the 20th Century
(b) The current northern flank of St
George’s Bay
(c) The northern flank of St
George’s Bay as envisaged by the
proposed development
Formatted: Font: (Default) Arial
- 35 -
Figure 11: Risk Assessment Map for the areas being assessed in this report
- 36 -
Description Magnitude of likely and impacts significance of impacts Duration of impacts Temporary Permanent Extent of impacts Coverage Affected receptors Direct/Indirect Nature of impacts impacts Adverse Beneficial Reversibility of Sensitivity of impacts receptors to impacts Reversible Irreversible Probability of occurrence of impacts Confidence Scope for Residual limits to mitigation impacts of Impacts impact prediction Room and surrounding landscape Direct Irreversiblen/a Room and surrounding landscape HiIgh High YesNo None Name of affected resource: Room (BSG14/001) Very high None Permanent Adversen/a Summary of Documentation of structure and retention of stones in fake rustication to be used elsewhere None mitigation measures and monitoring Name of affected resource: Room (BSG14/002) Very high None Permanent Room and surrounding landscape Direct Adversen/a Irreversiblen/a Room and surrounding landscape HiIgh High No None Adversen/a Irreversiblen/a Entrenchment wall and surrounding landscape LowHigh LowHigh YesNo None Summary of Documentation of structure None mitigation measures and monitoring Name of affected resource: Knights’ Period Entrenchment Wall (BSG14/003) ModerateHigh Permanent Entrenchment wall and surrounding landscape Indirect Summary of Assuming that the garigue area will be fenced up and inaccessible, both the garigue, quarries (BSG14/004) and the Knights’ Period entrenchment wall (BSG14/003) be not be mitigation affected. Documentation of quarries in the area prior to their destruction to ensure recording given the possible link between the quarry and entrenchment wall (SGB14/003) measures and monitoring Name of affected resource: Surface Quarrying (BSG14/004) Very high High Permanent Surface DirectIndirevt Adversen/a quarrying and surrounding - 37 -
Irreversiblen/a Surface quarrying and surrounding landscape HIgh High No None Description Magnitude of likely and impacts significance of impacts Duration of impacts Temporary Permanent Extent of impacts Coverage Affected receptors Direct/Indirect Nature of impacts impacts Adverse Beneficial Reversibility of Sensitivity of impacts receptors to impacts Reversible Irreversible Probability of occurrence of impacts Confidence Scope for Residual limits to mitigation impacts of Impacts impact prediction landscape Summary of Assuming that the garigue area will be fenced up and inaccessible, both the garigue, quarries (BSG14/004) and the Knights’ Period entrenchment wall (BSG14/003) be not be mitigation affected.Monitoring of works measures and monitoring Name of affected resource: Moynihan House (BSG14/005) Very high Permanent Moynihan House Direct Adverse Irreversible Moynihan House; Cultural Very Very Yes Landscape of St George’s Bay; high high Early British military architecture heritage in Malta Change in cultural landscape and an important element of early British military architecture in Malta Property Markers; Moynihan Very Very Yes House; Cultural Landscape of St high high George’s Bay; Early British military architecture heritage in Malta Change in cultural landscape and an important element of early British military architecture in Malta Summary of Restoration of main features in the house and utilisation of these spaces for modern use mitigation measures and monitoring Name of affected resource: War Department Property Markers(BSG14/006; BSG14/007) Very high Permanent Moynihan House and Property Markers Direct Adverse Irreversible Summary of Restoration of main features in the house and utilisation of these spaces for modern use; Retention of Property Marker mitigation measures and monitoring Name of affected resource: Dolphin House (BSG14/008) Very high Permanent Dolphin House Direct - 38 -
Adverse Irreversible Dolphin House; Cultural Very Very Yes Landscape of St George’s Bay; high high Early British military architecture Change in cultural landscape and an important element of Description Magnitude of likely and impacts significance of impacts Duration of impacts Temporary Permanent Extent of impacts Coverage Affected receptors Direct/Indirect Nature of impacts impacts Adverse Beneficial Reversibility of Sensitivity of impacts receptors to impacts Reversible Irreversible Probability of occurrence of impacts Confidence Scope for Residual limits to mitigation impacts of Impacts impact prediction heritage in Malta
early British military architecture in Malta Summary of Restoration of main features in the house and utilisation of these spaces for modern use mitigation measures and monitoring Name of affected resource: Ghar Harq Hammiem Very highLow Permanent Ghar Harq Hammiem Direct Adversen/a Irreversiblen/a Damage to Ghar Harq Hammiem Very Very Yes hHigh hHigh
Damage to the geological features, which have a historical value, of Ghar Harq HammiemNone Summary of Restoration of main features in Moynihan House and Dolphin House Considering that the Noise and Vibrations Report (Echo Affiliates Ltd, 2014) has determined that given that mitigation saws will be used during excavations near the cave, it will not be affected by vibrations. measures and monitoring Name of affected resource: Cultural Landscape Very high Permanent Cultural Landscape Direct Adverse Irreversible Cultural Landscape of St Very Very Yes George’s Bay; Early British high high military architecture heritage in Malta Change in the cultural landscape Summary of Restoration of main features in Moynihan House and Dolphin House mitigation measures and monitoring Table 2: Summary of Envisaged Impacts and Proposed Mitigations
- 39 -
Formatted: Centered
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1647
Della Descrittione Di Malta Isola Nel Mare Siciliano Con Le Sue
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Aston, M.
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Interpreting The Landscape: Landscape Archaeology And Local
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Barker, P.
1993
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Blouet, B.W. 1963
The Changing Landscape of Malta during the Rule of the Order
of St. John of Jerusalem 1530-1798. Dissertation submitted for
the degree of Doctor of Philosophy, University of Hull.
Borg, M.,
2001
British Colonial Architecture: Malta 1800-1900, PEG Ltd, Malta.
Buhagiar, C.M.,
1999,
‘Museum News’, in Malta Archaeological Review Issue 3: 3941.
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‘National Museum of Archaeology News: 1998 & 1999’, Malta
Archaeological Review Issue 4: 44-50
Council of Europe
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European Convention on the Protection of the Archaeological
Heritage (Revised), Valletta 16.I.1992, URL: http://conventions.
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European Landscape Convention, Florence 20.X.2000, URL:
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Crawford, O.G.S.
1953
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Cutajar, N.,
1998,
‘Museum News’, Malta Archaeological Review Issue 2: 2223.
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Darvill T., Gerrard C. & Startin B.
1993
‘Identifying And Protecting Historic Landscapes’, in Antiquity 67
(1993): 563-74.
ELLIs, I.,
2010
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Julians, BDL Publishing
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1971
The Prehistoric Antiquities Of The Maltese Islands: A Survey.
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1997
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‘Andrew Moynihan’, URL: http://www.findagrave.com/cgibin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=7831097 ,visited on: 11/7/2014.
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The treatment of Ulcerative Colitis,in Moynihan Lecture delivered
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Difficulties Be Damned: The King's Regiment - A History of the
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Field Code Changed
Roberts, B.K.
1987
Landscape archaeology. In: J.M. WAGSTAFF, ed, Landscape &
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Supplement 9. Peeters, Belgium.
Spiteri, S. C.
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Fortifications Built by the Knights of St. John in Malta, PSL, Malta
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British Fortifications: An illustrated guide to the British
fortifications in Malta
1994
Fortess of the Cross: Hospitaller Military Architecture (11361798): A Heritage Interpretation Services Publication Malta-1994
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British Military Architecture in Malta, Stephen C. Spiteri, Valletta.
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The Art of Fortress Building in Hospitaller Malta, BDL Publishing
Malta
Tartaron, T.F.
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Wettinger, G.
2000
Place-Names of The Maltese Islands Ca. 1300-1800, P.E.G. Ltd,
Malta.
Annual Reports of the Workings of the Museums Department (MARs) 1904–1998.
The Structure Plan of the Maltese Islands (Revised). 1997.
The Cultural Heritage Act, 2002.
The Burra Charter, Australia ICOMOS, 1999.
MEPA, Northern Harbour Local Plan, 2006.
- 43 -
- 44 -
Appendix I:
Catalogue of
Cultural Features
- 45 -
Data Capture Sheet
ref no
BSG14/001
Location
Category
Bajja ta' San Gorg, San Vernacular
Giljan
Site Description (Address)
Room at Il-Bajja Ta' San Gorg, San Giljan
Eastings
5398
Northings
7604
Period
Early 20th Century
SS No1
5276
SS No2
SS No4
SS No3
Date of survey sheet:
1992
Description
Room built on the immediate shoreline rendered in fake rustication
with three windows facing north. The room is reached by a flight of
concrete steps and accessed from a door on the southern side. On
the shoreline beneath the 3 windows is a blocked arch. The roof is
rendered in concrete. No further information could be retreieved
since it was inaccessable.
Present Utilisation
Unknown
Comments
Inacessable
Site
BSG14/001
Condition
Good condition on the exterior
Degree of Protection
None
Proposed Protection
Grade 2
Basic Bibliography
Ellis, I., 2010, Richard Ellis: The photography collection Vol II– Sliema and St Julian’s, BDL Publishing.
Compiled by
KDB, DB, MB, EV
Date of Survey
10.07.2014
BSG14/001 (1)
Data Capture Sheet
ref no
BSG14/002
Location
Category
Bajja ta' San Gorg, San Vernacular
Giljan
Room at Il-Bajja Ta' San Gorg, San Giljan
Eastings
5396
Northings
7601
Period
Early 20th Century
SS No1
5276
SS No2
SS No4
SS No3
Description
Inaccessable Room which was visible in an Ellis photo of the area.
The rom has been covered in plaster and its original features
cannot be determined.
1992
Present Utilisation
Unknown
Comments
Inacessable
Site
BSG14/002
Condition
Good condition on the exterior, which has been
heavily restored.
None
Proposed Protection
Grade 2
Basic Bibliography
Ellis, I., 2010, Richard Ellis: The photography collection Vol II– Sliema and St Julian’s, BDL Publishing.
Compiled by
KDB, DB, MB, EV
Date of Survey
10.07.2014
Data Capture Sheet
ref no
BSG14/003
Location
Category
Bajja ta' San Gorg, San Military
Giljan
Knights' Period Entrenchment Wall at Il-Bajja Ta' San Gorg, San
Giljan
Eastings
5416
Northings
7607
Period
Late 18th Century
SS No1
5476
SS No2
SS No4
SS No3
Description
Entrenchment Wall built by Grandmaster Pinto as part of the
attempts to fortify the Maltese coastline against corsair attacks. It
had a number of embrasures which have now been blocked. While
it must have reached the shoreline, the lower part has been
substituted by another wall which acted as a boundary wall.
1992
Present Utilisation
Boundary Wall
Comments
Site
BNG14/003
Condition
Fair
Grade 2, GN 628/08
Proposed Protection
Basic Bibliography
Spiteri, S., 1994, Fortess of the Cross: Hospitaller Military Architecture (1136-1798): A Heritage Interpretation Services
Publication Malta.
Compiled by
KDB, DB, MB, EV
Date of Survey
10.07.2014
BNG14/003 (a)
Data Capture Sheet
ref no
BSG14/004
Location
Category
Bajja ta' San Gorg, San Rock-cut
Giljan
Surface Quarrying at Il-Bajja Ta' San Gorg, San Giljan
Eastings
5409
Northings
7606
Period
Unknown
SS No1
5476
SS No2
SS No4
SS No3
1992
Description
Surface quarrying to northwest of the Knights' Entrenchment Wall
(BSG14/003). To the northeast is a small number of saltpans
probably being natural rock pools. Nonetheless, in other localities
of the Maltese islands, such natural rock pools were cleaned to be
used salt pans. In these quarries, which extend outside the area
being assessed, one could notice tool marks especially wedge
marks. A particular mark, very close to the entrenchment wall
outside the area being assessed, shows the negative imprint of
two blocks that bear the dimensions of the stones used for the
entrenchments.
Present Utilisation
None
Comments
Site
BSG14/004
Condition
Fair
None
Proposed Protection
Grade 3
Basic Bibliography
Compiled by
KDB, DB, MB, EV
Date of Survey
10.07.2014
BSG14/004 (1)
Data Capture Sheet
ref no
BSG14/005
Location
Category
Bajja ta' San Gorg, San Architecture
Giljan
Moynihan House at Il-Bajja Ta' San Gorg, San Giljan
Eastings
5385
Northings
7613
Period
1860s
SS No1
5276
SS No2
SS No4
SS No3
1992
Description
The Birthplace of Lord Moynihan has been built in th 1860s and
was linked to St George's Barracks. The building, with a back
garden, is in a dilapidated state. However its characteristics of an
austere Victorian building rendered in Maltese stone makes it a
rare occurrence in Malta. Its roof built with stone slabs ('xorok')
suported by wooden beams, arches to support larger rooms, spiral
staircase in stone, plane cornice, stone fireplaces and chimney
beams, make it a unique structure. Access is from the eastern
side, since the apertures on the façade have beenblocked, apart
from a couple of rooms that are being used by the Malta Tourism
Authority. While the upper floor seems to be a later addition, its
patina indicates that it is still not a recent addition. This floor is also
visible in an Ellis photo, so it can be dated to prior the 1930s. A
number of alterations in the interior were made when at some
point it was used as a guesthouse.
Present Utilisation
Partly used by Malta Tourism Authority
Comments
Site
BSG14/005
Condition
Bad
None
Proposed Protection
Grade 2
Basic Bibliography
1896 Ordnance Survey Sheet
No.45;
Ellis: the photography collection Vol III – Sliema and St Julians, BDL Publishing
Compiled by
KDB, DB, MB, EV
Ellis, I, 2010, Richard
Date of Survey
10.07.2014
BSG14/005 - blocked chimney, high ceilings
BSG14/005 (2) - blocked arch, lat cornice
BSG14/005 (3) western side of Moynihan House
Photo5 File Name:
BSG14/005 (5) pl
BSG14/005 (5) plaque commemorating Lord Moynihan
Data Capture Sheet
ref no
BSG14/006
Location
Category
Giljan
War Department Propert Market at Il-Bajja Ta' San Gorg, San
Giljan
Eastings
5383
Northings
7613
Period
19th - 20th Century
SS No1
5276
SS No2
SS No4
SS No3
Description
War Department Propert Marker, marked WD 3. Another marker
lie in the same property (WD 2 is BSG14/007) while WD 1, was
located opposite Moynihan House but has now been lost.
1992
Present Utilisation
None
Comments
Site
BSG14/006
Condition
Fair
None
Proposed Protection
Grade 2
Basic Bibliography
Compiled by
KDB, DB, MB, EV
Date of Survey
10.07.2014
Data Capture Sheet
ref no
BSG14/007
Location
Category
Giljan
War Department Propert Market at Il-Bajja Ta' San Gorg, San
Giljan
Eastings
5386
Northings
7615
Period
19th - 20th Century
SS No1
5276
SS No2
SS No4
SS No3
Description
War Department Propert Marker, marked WD 3. Another marker
lie in the same property (WD 2 is BSG14/006) while WD 1, was
located opposite Moynihan House but has now been lost.
1992
Present Utilisation
None
Comments
Site
BSG14/007
Condition
Fair
None
Proposed Protection
Grade 2
Basic Bibliography
Compiled by
KDB, DB, MB, EV
Date of Survey
10.07.2014
Data Capture Sheet
ref no
BSG14/008
Location
Category
Bajja ta' San Gorg, San Architecture
Giljan
Dolphin House at Il-Bajja Ta' San Gorg, San Giljan
Eastings
5382
Northings
7613
Period
1860s
SS No1
5276
SS No2
SS No4
SS No3
1992
Description
Dolphin House lies adjacent to Moynihan House (BSG14/005). It
was built in a slightly different layout than Moynihan House as
shown in an Ellis photograph taken from Villa Rosa reproduced
below. This building façade has been covered in plaster and
slightly altered, although its interior characteristics were not
recorded since it was inaccessible during the survey. The third
storey of the building was added in recent times when the building
was being renovate.
Present Utilisation
None
Comments
Site
Reproduction of an Ellis photograph
Condition
Good condition on the exterior
None
Proposed Protection
Grade 2
Basic Bibliography
1896 Ordnance SS No 45;
Ellis, I, 2010, Richard Ellis: the photography collection Vol III – Sliema and St Julians, BDL Publishing
Compiled by
KDB, DB, MB, EV
Date of Survey
10.07.2014
BSG14/008
BSG14/008 (1) - façade

EPS Technical Appendices Vol 3

Transcription

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