Agreement To Return Manoel Island & Fort Tigne To The People Sealed

Prime Minister Robert Abela, accompanied by Minister for Culture, Lands and Local Government Owen Bonnici, marked the agreement that will see Manoel Island and Fort Tigné return to the Maltese and Gozitan people.

Under the agreement reached between the Government and MIDI plc, the two sites of national and historical importance will come under the responsibility of Heritage Malta.

Abela described the agreement as a historic moment and said the Government will amend the local plan to ensure that no development can take place on Manoel Island, safeguarding the area for future generations.

He explained that the process to transform the site into a national park will now continue, based on the wishes expressed by the Maltese and Gozitan public during the consultation process.

The park will preserve the natural beauty of the landscapes and beaches while protecting the historical heritage found on Manoel Island.

Abela said thousands of submissions were received from members of the public. He stated that people want a project that protects the landscape, prioritises the public interest and guarantees full accessibility.

The Prime Minister also said that the three national parks at Manoel Island, White Rocks and Fort Campbell will be a priority during the next legislature, describing them as one of the Government’s greatest legacies for future generations.

He concluded by saying the Government had placed people’s wellbeing ahead of financial considerations, adding that Malta’s strong economy and stability made decisions of this kind possible.

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