The social gains and costs of developing a runway in Gozo

Abstract

The dissertation's objective was to forecast what effects the combined economic, social, and environmental aspects of developing a runway for fixed wing aircraft will have on the quality of life of the Gozitans. Subsequently it should highlight areas where further studies are needed. Current visitors to Gozo tend to visit on one day trips & do not inject much cash into its economy. Stakeholders in Gozo's tourism industry have for long contended that the island's double insularity is one of the major reasons for poor performance in overnight stays. Part of the government's tourism policy states that its aim is to 'facilitate access between Malta and Gozo through sea and air links'. Yet some ascertain that the hindrance in accessing the island is part of its appeal. Research was conducted with stakeholders in order to identify the main issues raised by such a development. Results indicate that the public is misinformed about the likely impacts as the development of the proposal has taken an approach whereby conclusions about the effects have been made before the necessary studies have been carried out.