Communities around Malta are increasingly benefiting from greener, better-designed open spaces – and Birgu is no exception. In Birgu, landscaping works are nearly complete on one site while a second major greening project, led by the Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation (GHRC), is about to begin.
Minister for the Environment, Energy and Public Cleanliness Miriam Dalli together with Parliamentary Secretary for Public Cleanliness Glenn Bedingfield visited both sites accompanied by representatives from GHRC and Ambjent Malta and Birgu mayor John Boxall.
One of the visits marked the launch of works on the former oil depot site – a 1500m² area which will be transformed into a Mediterranean-style garden by GHRC. The space will include native flora, shaded picnic areas, winding gravel paths, and a 400m² event arena. It forms part of GHRC’s wider regeneration works around Kalkara Creek.
“Whether it’s a major regeneration or a neighbourhood upgrade, we are adopting a holistic approach across all entities to bring open spaces and greenery into people’s lives. The works in Birgu are a perfect example of how we are creating community spaces that are beautiful, accessible, and built to last. These projects build on other greening efforts in the locality, including Ġnien fuq il-Glażiż, further enriching Birgu’s network of open spaces,” Minister Dalli said.
GHRC CEO Gino Cauchi highlighted the garden’s sustainable design. “By layering 8cm of gravel over 50cm of soil, we reduce water loss and support local plants. Freshwater reservoirs, fed by a natural spring discovered during our Xewkija project, will help maintain the space sustainably.”
The minister also visited a project by Ambjent Malta at the entrance to Birgu. The €230,000 investment includes soil reinstatement, soft landscaping, and the installation of protective membranes over historic underground shelters.
Ambjent Malta Director General Herman Galea noted, “This project enhances the environmental quality of the area while respecting the site’s unique character. It’s a good example of how we can blend practical improvements with sensitivity to heritage.”
