Planning authority approves il-fortizza microbrewery

The Planning Authority has approved restoration and adaptive-use works at il-Fortizza on Tower Road, Sliema. The monument, known historically as Sliema Point Battery, holds Grade 1 scheduled status, the highest level of heritage protection in Malta. German Kraft, a UK-based independent craft beer company, will install a microbrewery within the fortification's ditch area.

The company operates multi-vendor community taprooms inside commercial food markets, with existing locations in Mayfair, Elephant & Castle and Vienna. Andreas Bollen submitted the planning application on the company's behalf. Brewing equipment, including fermentation tanks, pumps and service units, will be placed on supports inside the ditch along Tower Road.

The supports prevent contact with the historic fabric. A lightweight, reversible glazed roof will cover the ditch area. The Planning Authority's case officer classified the microbrewery as ancillary to the existing catering establishment, meaning no additional parking is required.

Part of the basement will become a linked production and storage area for the brewery, with staff facilities and sanitary amenities added. The existing restaurant will continue to serve food and drink for on-site consumption. Restoration works will remove later additions to expose the original casemates, structures that historically held Royal Marine Light artillery pieces.

Approved works also include basement-level alterations, reinstatement of former shell stores, new accessibility lifts and rehabilitation of parts of the original ditch. A parallel application covering the external fabric accompanies this permit. Il-Fortizza was constructed during the British period and is recognised by the Planning Authority as a monument of high historical and architectural value reflecting Malta's strategic military importance.

The Superintendence of Cultural Heritage initially objected to certain proposed openings and structural changes affecting the original construction. After revised plans and a detailed works method statement were submitted, the Superintendence withdrew its objection. Two bank guarantees were imposed as permit conditions.

A €7,000 guarantee ensures restoration works follow the approved method statement, with monitoring by the Superintendence required. A separate €5,000 guarantee covers removal of existing unauthorised elements, specifically low walls with glass railings and an outbuilding. Previous proposals for additional seating closer to the promenade were refused because of their impact on the fortification's setting.

Permanent canopies are excluded from outdoor catering arrangements; shading is limited to umbrellas. Tables and chairs adjacent to the promenade were removed from the plans before approval.