Issues of Overdevelopment and “Touristization” in Malta

The following article discusses the issues that arise with overdevelopment and intense tourist activity in the Maltese context, highlighting the unsustainability of the status quo. The article analyzes the issue from multiple aspects such as, climate change, social challenges, infrastructure, spatial limitations, economic sustainability, legislation, activism, and governmental transparency. Drawing on previous articles discussing controversial developments in Malta, a new case study is introduced: the new redevelopment plans for Comino Hotel, promoted by a resort developer and under appeal after being approved by the local planning authority. Using an ongoing and uncompleted project (completion is expected in 2027) the author questions yet another example of possible inappropriate development, discussing what advancements, if any, were made during recent decades regarding NGOs’ efforts to safeguard a diminishing Maltese natural landscape.