The Planning Authority has given its blessing for the construction of a soundstage at the Malta Film Studios in Kalkara on Thursday.

Part of the project includes the construction of a soundstage and will include an environment-controlled indoor water tank which will incorporate the infinite horizon of the adjacent deep-water tank.

The newly approved soundstage is soundproof hangar-like structure with a floor area of 4,000 square metres, used for the construction of set-building where shooting of film and television productions is carried out, the Planning Authority said in a statement on Thursday, after its decision.

The application also includes the relocation of other approved structures, and the construction of a new reservoir and multipurpose room. The underground water reservoir will have a capacity of 1,910 cubic metres and will be located under the parking area.

The Planning Authority announced its decision saying “Malta will benefit from a competitive edge in the global film industry after the Planning Board approved an upgrading project at the Malta Film Studios in Kalkara.”

The Superintendence of Cultural Heritage and the Cultural Heritage Advisory Committee in their representation said it recognised the project’s “national significance” and the designated use of the site for the production of films.

“The latest submissions indicate an improvement in the design with the use of louvers and mitigation through the introduction of vegetation, whilst taking cognisance of the context of the area, particularly the existing screening effect of the commitment and approved development at Smart City,” the representation reads, as the Superintendence said it may consider this planning application as proposed.

The Superintendence of Cultural Heritage had previously highlighted that its concerns had not been addressed, and said the site fell partly within the buffer zone of Fort Rinella, a Grade 1 battery. It drew attention to the historic value of the site, which also forms part of a fortified coastal landscape. Thus, any development may be considered at this location is not to prejudice the cultural heritage value of his site.

Din l-Art Ħelwa had objected to the application citing that the development is within the setting of the Grade 1 scheduled properties and an area of fortified coastal landscape.

The organisation had argued that any development which takes place within this setting should not lead to further piecemeal development, as it registered itself as an objector.