FAA applauds the Authorities’ decision to rescind plans to uproot almost 40 mature trees at Senglea Waterfront following the public outcry. It is laudable that the Ministry for Infrastructure, Transport and Communications, Transport Malta, the Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation and MEPA have re-examined this project, adapting it to incorporate most of the existing trees in their present planting beds.
This is to the benefit of the Senglea community who enjoy the shade of these trees in one of the only recreational areas in Senglea while also attracting much-needed tourists to the Three Cities. The proposed project will upgrade the waterfront while preserving its identity as well as retaining the benefits that these mature trees contribute towards purifying the air and reducing stress in this over-populated area.
Paola now
Given that most of Senglea residents were not informed of this project, FAA urges all ministries and authorities to strengthen their public consultation procedures, especially in view of the impending changes at Paola Square. The Paola Square project being planned by the Paola Local Council in conjunction with the MRRA will involve changes to traffic, the removal of all the large old trees to be replaced by shrubs in pots, and modernization of the square through the use of modern street furniture and concrete.
Proposed new Paola plan
The FAA Tree Group urges the public to sign the ‘Stop Killing Trees’ petition which as of the 4thOctober stands at 1,500 signatories – the Senglea trees have been saved but almost 2,000 more are planned to be destroyed in the coming months. See the video and sign the petition here:http://www.change.org/
