G-0490 SITE A - PDS 1

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1 G-0490 SITE A - PDS 1

2 Revision Sheet VERSION DATE DESCRIPTION ORIGINAL G-0490 SITE A - PDS 2

3 Contents REVISION SHEET... 2 CONTENTS... 3 LIST OF FIGURES... 4 LIST OF TABLES... 4 PREAMBLE... 5 INTRODUCTION DEVELOPER INFORMATION The Developer The Team PROJECT OUTLINE AND OBJECTIVES Low Density Residential Community Improving Permeability Enhancing the legacy of the site LOCATION OF PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT SITE ANALYSIS Present Land uses on site Present Surrounding Land uses Existing Services THE PROJECT PROPOSED LAND USE AN ECOLOGICALLY RESPONSIBLE DEVELOPMENT CENTRAL MADLIENA DESIGN PROJECT SITE SETUP CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT MATERIALS MAJOR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS G-0490 SITE A - PDS 3

4 List of Figures Figure 1: Madliena (source: Google Maps)... 8 Figure 2: Madliena (source: Google Maps)... 8 Figure 3: Central Madliena Opportunity Area (source: North Harbours Local Plan)... 8 Figure 4: Existing main axial path... 9 Figure 5: Existing Perimeter site... 9 Figure 6: Surrounding Context - Villas (source: Google Maps) Figure 7: Surrounding Context - Boundary wall (source: Google Maps) Figure 8: Surrounding Context - Villas (source: Google Maps) Figure 9: Surrounding Context - Villas + Boundary wall (source: Google Maps) Figure 10: Surrounding Context - Villas + rural Figure 11: Map SE1 (NHLP) Figure 12: Map SW1 (NHLP) Figure 13: Central Madliena Opportunity Area - Proposed Masterplan Figure 14: Artistic Impression - Aerial View List of Tables Table 1: Approximate total number of personnel on site Table 2: Equipment to be used Table 3: Parking Provision Table 4: Projected Timing Table 5: Projected raw materials to be used Table 6: Major Environmental Impacts G-0490 SITE A - PDS 4

5 Preamble This document has been compiled as a Project Description Statement (PDS) for the project currently holding the Planning reference 06308/16, as per Planning requirements. As requested in the Screening Letter dated 12th of November 2016, this document was prepared under Schedule IA, Section (S.L ). It is composed of various sections listed in the Table of Contents, which tackle the themes identified in Regulation 5(3) a to m. G-0490 SITE A - PDS 5

6 Introduction 1.0. Developer information 1.1. The Developer The developer is Scicluna Estates, a family run firm who have been at the forefront of Maltese quality developments for generations. They are keen supporters of Product Malta always striving to be at the forefront when it comes to promoting a lifestyle at par and above with major world developments. Quality has always been the driving ethos as may be attested by the group's rich current and past portfolio which includes but is not limited to; Palazzo Parisio, The prestigious Balluta Buildings and recent modern enhancements like the Electro Lobster project which have served to regenerate the Piazza and sustain the iconic landmark's relevance. Streat Whiskey and Bistro, a successful and tastefully done endeavour which not only helped pave the way for Valletta's nightlife regeneration but also set the tone for a more sophisticated awakening of Strait Street. In order to further consolidate their position as leading quality developers they have set to undertake their next challenge in luxury living. They aim to achieve this through an 80M Euro direct investment which shall satisfy the need for energy conscious upmarket developments The Team Project Architects: Paul Camilleri & Associates Paul Camilleri was born in Valletta in He studied at the Royal University of Malta graduating as a Perit in 1977 and subsequently also obtained his postgraduate degree from the Politecnico di Milano in He set up the architectural and engineering practice Paul Camilleri & Associates with offices in Valletta, upon his return to Malta, after having worked for eight years in Italy, Belgium, Libya and Saudi Arabia. He has placed first in three competitions, the first in a design for a commercial centre in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the second for the design of the Mtarfa new town, in joint venture with another Maltese firm and the third for a multi-use tower in Tripoli, Libya. Besides being involved in various projects in Malta for both local and foreign clients, including the re-habilitation and conversion of various properties in Valletta, Paul Camilleri & Associates is also involved in projects in Italy, Saudi Arabia and Libya. He is also a past president of the Kamra tal-periti. G-0490 SITE A - PDS 6

7 2.0. Project Outline and Objectives The site proposed is bound on all sides by villa developments. The aims of this project follow the objectives set in the North Harbours Local plan for the "Central Madliena Opportunity Site" NHSW08 (North Harbours Local Plan p.160). The main objective is to supply high quality, luxury living developments which promote sustainability at all levels Low Density Residential Community The density of the project is very low at the edge of the site, and increases gradually to the centre of the site, in order to promote sustainable living and maximise the efficiency of land use while keeping to the existing character of the neighbouring areas. The project aims to provide high quality detached buildings starting from detached dwellings at the edge up to a maximum of four dwellings per building at the centre of the site in order to keep a similar density to the existing scenario. A small cluster of centrally located shops is envisaged, and this will improve the amenity not just for new dwellings but also for the existing neighbourhood. While retaining the residential character of the area, access to basic every day shops for residents is envisaged to improve the quality of life of the residents Improving Permeability Another objective is to improve both physical and visual permeability through the site. People will be able to pass through the site using the existing, upgraded axial linear route, which will strengthen pedestrian connectivity through a high quality designed public open space network Enhancing the legacy of the site The upgrading of the linear axial route will enhance the legibility of the site, with the proposed public open spaces containing key landmarks such as the central fountain, the plaza, and the cart ruts area. Additionally, the Class B archaeological site will be conserved, and during the process of construction the proper investigations and recordings shall be carried out by an archaeologist. The legacy of the site is also strengthened by the use of stone walls from the pre-existing quarry - stone walls which currently act as boundaries between fields. These walls which will be used to delineate plot boundaries also contribute to the existing rural character of the area which is furthermore enhanced by soft landscaping. G-0490 SITE A - PDS 7

8 3.0. Location of proposed development Figure 1: Madliena (source: Google Maps) The Location of the proposed development is The Central Madliena Opportunity Area site - Map SW5 from the North Harbours Local Plan. Figure 2: Madliena (source: Google Maps) Figure 3: Central Madliena Opportunity Area (source: North Harbours Local Plan) G-0490 SITE A - PDS 8

9 4.0. Site Analysis 4.1. Present Land uses on site The current site is made up of multiple agricultural fields. The dominant land use on the site is therefore agriculture. The site also has an existing axis with a central fountain, which will be used as the focal point of the public open space within the masterplan. Figure 4: Existing main axial path Figure 5: Existing Perimeter site G-0490 SITE A - PDS 9

10 4.2. Present Surrounding Land uses The area around the Madliena opportunity site is a low density residential area, consisting of mainly semi-detached villas. Figure 6: Surrounding Context - Villas (source: Google Maps) Figure 7: Surrounding Context - Boundary wall (source: Google Maps) Figure 8: Surrounding Context - Villas (source: Google Maps) Figure 9: Surrounding Context - Villas + Boundary wall (source: Google Maps) Figure 10: Surrounding Context - Villas + rural G-0490 SITE A - PDS 10

11 4.3. Existing Services By observing existing buildings along the perimeter of the Central Madliena Opportunity site, it is assumed that the new development will be connected to currently existing services including electricity and the foul water system. Rain water is absorbed by organic soil of the agricultural land, and excess water is spilt over into the streets. The Project 5.0. Proposed Land Use In view of the site's surroundings of low density detached and semidetached buildings, the North Harbours Local Plan (NHLP) recognises that this character should be emphasized upon. Madliena is clearly marked as a residential area in Map SE1 and Map SW1 shows that neighbouring buildings are of the detached and semidetached type, making it in one of the few low density villa areas in Malta. The NHLP also provides specific guidelines for the Central Madliena Opportunity site NHSW08, highlighting the importance of the surrounding context. Additionally The NHLP Swieqi Public Consultation document shows that the public agrees with the continuation of a low density villa area. Figure 11: Map SE1 (NHLP) G-0490 SITE A - PDS 11

12 Figure 12: Map SW1 (NHLP) The design team feels that retaining a similar density, massing, and scale is the best solution due to the unique surrounding context. The site is located in one of Malta's prime low density residential areas, and is surrounded by the same typology of buildings. It is not supplied by arterial roads and the NHLP does not identify it as a town centre, therefore it is highly unlikely and undesirable for the area to be developed as a high density mixed use project. Hospitality was considered as a land use, however when analysing the surrounding context, the constantly changing influx of people would disturb the neighbouring residences. The design proposal emphasizes upon retaining a quiet, rural, and residential character which merges with the existing low density scenario. While keeping the above mentioned qualities, the Madliena neighbourhood will be improved by the generation of a much needed public pedestrian open space, which aids legibility through the renovation of the fountain (currently in a dilapidated state) which acts as a landmark. Moreover, the inclusion of five small shops connected to the open space, is envisaged to reduce car dependency for all residents, as these will provide daily amenities. G-0490 SITE A - PDS 12

13 6.0. An Ecologically Responsible Development Energy conscious and eco-friendly construction is not only a wise choice for the future but it is also necessary. This type of construction is efficient in its use of renewable and carefully chosen materials and most of all in the energy generated while the building is being used. The implementation of energy conscious design to buildings varies through several characteristics which contribute to a holistic energy efficient design. The various approaches range from the choice of structure to the type of materials to obtain more comfortable spaces at reduced energy consumption. Materials used in buildings will always have an impact on the environment inside the building which will obviously influence the energy consumption. Features of the ecological approach implemented within this proposed design include: The varied use of solar energy for water heating and generation of electricity, Water conservation and recycling of rainwater, possibly including biological waste water treatment, for re-use in gardens and as second class water, Low energy light system which reduces drastically the energy consumed and can last up to 100 times longer than regular lighting systems. Apart from the reduction of the impact on the exterior and surrounding environment these approaches contribute to a healthier internal environment through good ventilation which further reduces energy consumption by minimizing energy inputs for cooling and light whilst incorporating energy efficient appliances. Each and every proposed building is carefully designed to maximize cooling air movement and exclude sun in summer The fundamental principles of passive design are relatively simple but they vary according to the type of building and construction system one adopts. In warm and humid climates like Malta, the night is usually warm with little diurnal variation. Due to the high humidity, evaporation from the skin is restricted hence evaporative cooling will be neither effective nor desirable as it would increase the humidity. Whilst adequate ventilation improved internal micro-climate, it is not enough. One of the major heating problems, locally, depends on the excessive increase of ceiling temperature which may be prevented by: Using light and reflective roof surface, Having a separate ceiling Using adequate resistive insulation for the ceiling construction. G-0490 SITE A - PDS 13

14 7.0. Central Madliena Design Project Figure 13: Central Madliena Opportunity Area - Proposed Masterplan Figure 14: Artistic Impression - Aerial View A description of the physical characteristics of the project is attached at the end of this document. Various images,3d models, and drawings explain the concept of both the typology of dwellings and the public open spaces. G-0490 SITE A - PDS 14

15 SITE SETUP CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT G-0490 SITE A - PDS 15

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20 The Central Madliena opportunity site can be subdivided into two, having the main central axis acting as a boundary line which helps site management. Phase 1 (SE/right part of the masterplan) and Phase 2 (NW/left part of the masterplan) consist of the construction of villas, which follow the same procedure. These phases can be carried out consecutively or in parallel, depending on the allowable time for construction. The aim of this proposal is to start Phase 2 a year after the initiation of Phase 1, in order to shorten the period of construction while keeping a steady cash flow. Prior development of the plots, dirt roads will be set out and formed according to the masterplan - this is to provide space for vehicles to access the various plots. The construction of the villas can be defined into 3 sub phases: Pre-Construction sub-phase - Disassembly of rubble walls, removal of agricultural soil, bulk excavation. Construction of dwellings sub-phase. Finishing sub-phase - Connection of services to existing infrastructure, Finishing of road and pavements, Finishing of dwellings. Sub phases are projected overlap as indicated in the Gantt charts below, in order to use different personnel and equipment simultaneously to achieve effective time and resource management. G-0490 SITE A - PDS 20