The Pietà Marina Garden, covering more than 4,400 square metres of open space in the centre of Pietà, has been regenerated and inaugurated by the Minister for the Environment, Energy and Public Cleanliness, Miriam Dalli, and the Parliamentary Secretary for Public Works, Omar Farrugia.
The project was carried out by the Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation (GHRC) in collaboration with Ambjent Malta and the Department of Public Works.
Once abandoned, the Marina Garden has now been transformed into a modern, safe, and accessible space for families, children, the elderly, and those who wish to use it for recreation or physical activity, following extensive regeneration works.
Minister Miriam Dalli stressed the essential role of open spaces within communities. “With this project, we are giving back a beautiful and safe space that not only respects its historical characteristics but at the same time offers new opportunities for recreation purposes for everyone. It is a space where families can spend time together, where children can play, and where everyone can relax in a clean and pleasant environment,” Minister Dalli said. “Moreover, the garden offers safe walking paths and facilities for physical activity, encourages a healthier lifestyle, and strengthens the ecological character and biodiversity of the locality.”
Parliamentary Secretary Omar Farrugia remarked that this is another project from several other projects that the Department of Public Works assisted the Ministry for the Environment, Energy and Public Cleanliness so that these spaces can be enjoyed by the Maltese families in a holistic way. The Department of Public Works carried out work on the garden’s fountain.
“The environment is truly close to our hearts, and this synergy between different government entities reflects this commitment and strengthens our vision to keep creating beautiful and safe environments for all,” said Parliamentary Secretary Farrugia. He also highlighted that, as previously announced, the Department of Public Works will continue working on more pedestrian zones in town centres and on various open space projects where Maltese families can spend quality time with their children.
The project included the development of a 210-metre greenway designed to provide an obstacle-free route for cyclists and joggers, while ensuring safe recreational use by the public. Around 980 square metres of pedestrian pathways were upgraded for improved safety. All benches were restored, new swings were installed, and a new outdoor exercise structure was introduced.
Improvements were also made to the recreational facilities, fountain and lighting system of the garden, so that visitors can enjoy this space at any time of the day. The project also ensured the restoration and maintenance of existing monuments, preserving the historical and cultural value of the garden.
As part of this project, Ambjent Malta planted new trees, shrubs, and seasonal plants, supported by a new irrigation system to ensure sustainable and efficient watering throughout the year.
Present at the inauguration were representatives of the Pietà Local Council, including Mayor Stefano Savo; the GHRC team, including CEO Gino Cauchi; the Ambjent Malta team, including Director General Herman Galea; and the Director General of the Department of Public Works, Stephen Bonello.
This project complements previous investment along the Msida seafront and the Pietà promenade, contributing to a continuous, modern, and safe promenade around the Grand Harbour area.
Photos (DOI/MEEC/MTIP_PS)
