Comino tree removal approved for Six Senses hotel project

The Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) has approved the removal and replanting of trees on the island of Comino to facilitate the Six Senses Comino hotel development. The project, led by the Hili Group, involves the construction of a 71-room hotel, 16 villas, and 44 swimming pools.

According to the ERA, 624 non-protected specimens, primarily ornamental oleanders, will be removed. While 54 protected trees are slated for removal, the ERA has mandated that the Hili Group plant 10 indigenous trees for every one removed, totaling 540 new trees. Additionally, 348 trees will be transplanted, with a requirement to replace any that fail to survive.

The decision has faced intense criticism from environmental organizations. Din l-Art Ħelwa condemned the move as ‘environmental vandalism,’ arguing that Comino is a protected Special Area of Conservation within the EU’s Natura 2000 network. Critics also noted that the permit was granted while the underlying planning permission remains subject to ongoing legal appeals.