Fort Chambray barracks escape demolition under revised development plans

In a statement issued on Monday, the government said the amendment recognises the historical and architectural significance of the barracks, which form an important part of Fort Chambray’s history and Malta’s cultural heritage.

Previous development plans for Fort Chambray ordered the demolition of the British-era barracks, with sections of their historic façade dismantled and reconstructed as part of a five-star hotel. The project was intended to consist of a 64-room 5-star aparthotel, 50 serviced apartments, and 105 residential units.

During discussions, the government and developers identified the need to integrate the historic structures into the site’s master plan, ensuring their heritage value is considered in future development plans for Fort Chambray.

“This development highlights the importance of ongoing dialogue between government and the private sector,” the statement read, “to ensure that the planning process considers both development potential and the need to respect historical heritage.”

The earlier controversial plans for the demolition of the barracks were approved by the Planning Authority in December 2024 and subsequently upheld by the Environment and Planning Review Tribunal in April 2026, despite objections from heritage organisations.

The barracks were also included in Europa Nostra’s 2026 list of Europe’s seven most endangered heritage sites, highlighting concerns over their future. The organisation had explained that the barracks represent a rare example of 19th-century British military architecture and form part of Malta’s social story.

NGOs have called for the Grade 1 scheduling of the British Barracks at Fort Chambray, which is the highest level of heritage protection in Malta and would require the site to be preserved in its entirety with only very limited alterations allowed.

It remains unclear whether the latest amendment to the master plan will see the barracks preserved in their original location, or how it will affect the previously approved demolition and relocation plans.