Expert Inspection Shows Ta' Qali Was Deliberately Ruined, Says Partit Momentum
Partit Momentum commissioned an independent inspection of the Ta’ Qali picnic area by a local expert to assess the condition of the site.
The inspection included an on-site survey and the excavation of several exploratory holes across the area.
The findings confirmed long-standing concerns about both the condition and the composition of the soil, said the party.
The assessment revealed that the original natural soil has been buried beneath two layers of imported material. The top layer consists of fine sand, below which lies a thin but heavily compacted layer of fine gravel.
‘This degree of compaction prevents seeds in the underlying soil from penetrating the surface and germinating. Based on professional experience, the only plant known to grow through such conditions is aggressive running bamboo.’
‘Running bamboo is widely documented as being capable of forcing its way through tarmac, weak concrete, mortar and even building foundations by exploiting cracks and gaps.’
‘While it rarely penetrates sound concrete, its fast-growing rhizomes can cause serious structural damage. No other common vegetation would reasonably be expected to grow through the compacted layers found on site.’
The inspection therefore concludes that the intervention was deliberately designed to suppress natural grass growth, unless seeds are later added from above.
‘This aligns with the current state of the site. The level of compaction has also made the soil practically impermeable to water, further preventing natural regeneration.’
‘Measurements show that the sand and gravel layers are between 10 and 15 centimetres deep across an area of around 22,000 square metres.’
"If the project cost amounted to 310,000 euros, this equates to a cost of just under 100 euros per cubic metre of sand, a figure that raises serious concerns regarding value for money and procurement practices."
Momentum leader Arnold Cassola stated that those responsible should repay the full amount to taxpayers and restore the park at their own expense.
Read the report here.
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