13-01-2011

Malta Considers Stricter Film Permit Conditions

By FNE Staff

    Following damage to an environmentally sensitive zone during a film production shoot, Malta is considering stricter conditions for filming permits based upon the historical and ecological nature of the sites requested.

    According to a report in The Independent, a 32-page report covers the damages incurred in 2010 when sand was improperly laid over a particularly sensitive area of Malta, as well as suggestions for amendments to the currrent Planning and Environment Act, with the Malta Film Commission's input.

    The report does recommend, however, that applications still be fast-tracked in order for Malta to continue to reap the financial advantages that foreign film production has brought to the island nation.

    It also lays out a plan to establish a Film Shooting Board.

    Decisions are to be taken by 2014, but could happen as early a 2012.