A new picnic area will be launched at the Majjistral Nature and History Park, regenerating 30,000m2 of land. Approximately 14,000m2 will be used for the picnic area with the installation of picnic benches and waste separation bins. In addition, 3,000 indigenous trees and shrubs will be planted.
This will allow a wide-open space for the enjoyment of all, with a very low impact on its surroundings.
The project was announced by Minister for Energy, Enterprise, and Sustainable Development Miriam Dalli in the presence of Minister for the Environment, Climate Change and Planning, Aaron Farrugia.
The picnic area will be monitored by park rangers, whilst parking facilities will be made available in close proximity. The project is set to be completed by autumn.
“We are investing close to €50,000 in the regeneration of this land to be enjoyed by the public. The idea of this open space is to give children space where to run freely in a safe environment. We have limited the number of picnic benches to 15 by choice, to respect the open environment,” Minister Miriam Dalli said. “To ensure sustainability in whatever we do, the outdoor furniture will be constructed out of recycled plastic.”
Thanking Parks Malta and the Majjistral Board for their work, Minister Dalli urged the public to make responsible use of the park. “We are investing in park rangers for increased security, but it’s also your responsibility to make use of the park responsibly.
A path to allow vehicular access to the boathouses will be retained.
Minister Aaron Farrugia said it is necessary to ensure that communities have access to recreational areas while also respecting the environment. He said that works are ongoing to create more picnic areas for families and stressed the importance of creating a better environment for the community, which includes more recreational areas and more greenery.
Applauding Parks Malta’s initiative, Minister Farrugia said that feedback on a discussion paper by the Planning Authority on camping, caravans, picnicking, and hiking is currently being reviewed.
“As government, we have heard the call for more and better managed green spaces and recreational areas, and we are acting on it. We are currently working on a chain of different projects aimed at improving our surroundings, including various green walls, roof gardens, urban greening projects and open space projects in various localities,” Minister Farrugia said.
“Recreational areas are what makes communities liveable – they provide a better environment and contribute to a better quality of life.”
Director-General Adrian Attard reiterated Parks Malta’s commitment to regenerate open spaces. “Parks Malta is committed to not only regenerate open spaces but also ensure that it’s taken care of.”
Majjistral Park Conservation Officer Darren Saliba said, “Since its inception, the Majjistral Park has always been geared towards providing recreational space for the general public as well as space where nature can thrive. This is also part of the Heritage Park’s Federation mission statement.”
