Ċirkewwa Marine Park Management Plan Launched
The Ċirkewwa Marine Park Management Plan has been officially launched, marking the transition of Malta’s first Marine Park from legal designation to active management.
The plan establishes a framework to protect the area’s marine environment while ensuring it continues to support recreation, research and sustainable tourism.
Launched during an event organised by the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA), together with the Ministry for Energy, the Environment and the Regeneration of the Grand Harbour, the Ministry for Tourism, the Ċirkewwa Management Council, the Malta Tourism Authority, Transport Malta and Nature Trust Malta, the plan identifies the habitats and species requiring protection, the pressures affecting the area and the measures needed to address them.
The plan includes zoning measures for different marine activities, improved mooring arrangements and the exploration of possible no-anchoring areas to protect sensitive seabed habitats.
It also provides for scientific monitoring of marine biodiversity, codes of conduct for users, improved coordination between enforcement authorities and the use of monitoring systems where appropriate.
Other measures include enhancing diver safety and emergency preparedness, promoting educational initiatives for schools and visitors, and developing digital awareness tools such as live underwater footage and virtual reality experiences.
Minister for Energy, the Environment and the Regeneration of the Grand Harbour Miriam Dalli said protecting a marine area cannot stop at drawing boundaries on a map.
She said the management plan turns protection into action through clear measures, shared responsibilities and continued monitoring, while allowing activities such as diving, boating, fishing, research and sustainable tourism to continue responsibly.
Tourism Minister Jo Etienne Abela said Malta’s sea is one of the country’s greatest assets and that the plan will help ensure maritime activities develop sustainably while preserving Ċirkewwa’s biodiversity and natural value for future generations.
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