The juxtaposition of architectural endeavours with urban conservation areas is an ongoing source of controversy and complexity within the realm of urban planning. The very essence of this challenge becomes pronounced when we traverse the boundaries delineated by local plans, which embrace the audacious vision of erecting structures soaring up to five stories, only to confront the serene enclave of urban conservation areas where buildings, in deference to their historic surroundings, gracefully retreat to a modest two-story count. Moreover, these architectural jewels congregate harmoniously around a resplendent landmark church, imbuing the vicinity with an aura of reverence and tranquillity.
In scrutinizing the cartographic tapestry of building height limitations, one is struck by the absence of a gradual descent in elevation as we approach the hallowed line demarcating the urban conservation area.
Instead, height limitation maps found in Local Plans bespeak a singular hue extending unyieldingly until the threshold of the UCA is reached.
Thus, it prompts contemplation on whether the denizens of this domain possess an innate entitlement to construct their edifices to a prodigious five-story stature up to the UCA line, save for the obligatory concessions of courtyards and recesses.
These enigmatic intricacies form the crux of the discourse that I recently explored and elucidated upon in another of my concise publications on planning law entitled ‘Bini li jmiss mal-UCA’.
