Tribunal overturns PA refusal for Christ the King Basilica interpretation centre
The Environment and Planning Review Tribunal (EPRT) has overturned the Planning Authority’s refusal of plans for an interpretation centre and cafeteria at the Christ the King Basilica in Paola, ordering the authority to issue the development permit within 30 days.
In a decision delivered on 23 July, the tribunal upheld an appeal filed by parish priest Fr Marc André Camilleri against the refusal of application PA2260/24. The EPRT concluded that the Planning Authority’s concerns over the project’s impact on the historic church were not sufficiently justified.
The approved development will see the basilica’s two belfry towers converted into a multi-level interpretation centre, with exhibition spaces spread across six floors and an observation deck at roof level.
The project also includes the demolition of three existing garages along Church Street to make way for a ground-floor cafeteria and souvenir shop.
