'Green House’ niche in Sliema labelled ‘insult to community’
Dismay at the demolition of a landmark Sliema house has been replaced by more outrage at the “atrocity” of the inclusion of its original niche into the new block of flats.
The incongruous addition from the iconic Id-Dar il-Ħadra (the Green House), as it was known to locals, in St Agatha Street, has added insult to injury and been described as an abomination.
“Even the saint it housed could not take it and has escaped,” one outraged resident said.
The original property, with its unmistakable and unusual green facade with niche and statue, had been recommended by the heritage authorities for protection due to its architectural value.
The original Green House with its niche and statue of the Virgin Mary.
But, in 2019, the Planning Authority approved PA 03062/17 to demolish the 19th-century building and make way for an eight-storey apartment block, with basement garages, a maisonette, 11 apartments and a penthouse, despite the objections of residents, heritage groups and the Sliema local council.
The plan, back then, was to retain the prominent niche, with its statue of the Virgin Mary, which gave its name to the adjacent St Mary Street.
The works have now been completed and the...