Development briefs and development planning in Malta

Abstract

The drafting and issuing of Development Briefs is the responsibility of the Planning Authority. Such briefs rigorously regularise land uses and related activities within the areas which they cover. This paper investigates the rationale behind the issuance of Development Briefs within the contemporary local planning system. By drawing parallels with the British planning framework, various options are investigated whereby compensation may be sought/demanded due to excessive planning gain requested as part of a Development Brief prepared by the Planning Authority from developers. By way of concluding the argument, reference is made to the provision contained in the Development Planning Act with respect to Governmental involvement in planning decisions.