New regulations streamline direct transfer of residual government-owned sites

New regulations governing the direct transfer of residual government-owned sites have been published, with the aim of improving and refining the existing framework introduced earlier in this legislature.

The updated rules build on Legal Notice 232 of 2022, which first established a mechanism allowing owners of larger developments or adjacent properties to acquire residual parcels of government land that form part of their sites. These residual sites are defined as government-owned plots that either abut private property or form part of a larger development but cannot be developed independently of the adjoining land.

The revised regulations address a number of issues that had emerged since the original framework came into force. These include a clearer definition of what constitutes a residual site, the eligibility of applicants holding temporary utile dominium, and complications arising from multi-level or shared occupations. The amendments also introduce clearer parameters regarding the size of sites that qualify and a more efficient system for determining the compensation payable.

A key outcome of the new regulations is expected to be the facilitation of solutions for individuals and families who purchased properties that were partially built on land later identified as government-owned. Through these changes, the Lands Authority will be in a stronger position to offer legal title that consolidates ownership for such occupants on an individual basis.

The government said the revised framework will help deliver on an electoral pledge to address longstanding property anomalies, while ensuring that prices paid for these transfers are fair and reflect the circumstances of the occupants.

 

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