A previously abandoned site along the Coast Road in Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq has been transformed into a new 5,500-square-metre public garden aimed at families and children.
Ġnien it-Tbissim was officially inaugurated by Environment Minister Miriam Dalli and European Funds Minister Keith Azzopardi Tanti, in the presence of Project Green officials and representatives of the Naxxar Local Council.
The new garden is within a 10-minute walk of around 1,250 residents and provides families in the area with a new green space where children can play and spend time outdoors.
Among the main attractions is a large pirate ship, alongside inclusive play equipment designed for children of different age groups. Facilities include a zipline, trampoline and climbing logs, encouraging outdoor activity and play.
The project represents an investment of around €1 million and was co-financed through European funds. Works included the construction of a 540-cubic-metre reservoir, natural stone paving, sanitary facilities, modern play equipment and security cameras across the site.
The garden will eventually contain around 500 trees, including 200 newly planted as part of the project. Once the vegetation reaches maturity, around 57% of the site, equivalent to approximately 3,135 square metres, is expected to benefit from natural shade.
Minister Miriam Dalli said the project reflects the Government’s continued investment in public open spaces and the regeneration of neglected land.
She said the strong public interest shown during the works demonstrated the importance of creating more accessible green spaces where families and communities can come together.
European Funds Minister Keith Azzopardi Tanti said European funding was helping Malta continue investing in the environment while creating accessible and inclusive public spaces. He said the management of European funds should ensure that funding opportunities result in tangible improvements to people’s quality of life and a more sustainable environment.
Project Manager Dylan Abela Spiteri welcomed the completion of the project, saying Ġnien it-Tbissim was now available to residents of Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq and the wider public.
The project was financed through European funds under Measure 8.5 and forms part of the Community Greening Grant Scheme.
Ġnien it-Tbissim is open daily from 7am to 10pm during the summer months and from 7am to 8pm during winter.
