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News
19 September 2025
Comino Redevelopment Project Approved: A Model of Sustainable Island Tourism
by Malta
Discover the Urban Contact Point
The Planning Board has given the green light to the redevelopment of the Comino Hotel and Bungalows, ushering in a new chapter for one of Malta’s most environmentally sensitive destinations. The project reflects key principles promoted by URBACT and the European Urban Initiative (EUI), particularly those concerning sustainable tourism, regeneration of underused spaces, and nature-based solutions.
Key Components of the Redevelopment:
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Demolition of outdated structures:
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Comino Hotel (San Niklaw Bay)
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Bungalows (Santa Marija Bay)
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- New infrastructure:
- A 140-bed hotel at San Niklaw Bay
- 16 individual serviced bungalows at Santa Marija Bay
- Amenities including a spa, restaurants, bars, pools, reservoirs, and improved berthing facilities
🌱 Sustainability & Regeneration:
The project embraces URBACT and EUI priorities, including:
- Land use efficiency: Entire development confined within the existing built envelope, eliminating encroachment on untouched land.
- Nature-based design:
- Low-rise, green-roofed buildings that follow natural land contours
- Creation of a construction-free coastal buffer zone
- Native plant landscaping to improve biodiversity and reduce visual impact
- Circular thinking: Restoration of existing heritage assets (e.g. the Santa Marija mortuary and WWII-era Nissen huts) contributes to resource efficiency and cultural value.
🏛️ Policy Alignment & EU Values:
- Aligned with Gozo and Comino Local Plan Policy GZ-Ghjn-8 (supporting sustainable facilities).
- Reinforces Malta’s commitments under Natura 2000, the EU Biodiversity Strategy, and Rural Conservation Area regulations.
- Supported by a €300,000 planning gain, earmarked for environmental improvement initiatives—reflecting the EUI focus on place-based investment and community benefit.