Local Councils Can Now Apply For Pet Friendly Open Spaces Funding

From today, Local Councils can apply for a new scheme to develop open spaces that include areas dedicated to pets.

The scheme was announced by Miriam Dalli, Minister for the Environment and Energy, and Alicia Bugeja Said, Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries, Aquaculture and Animal Rights.

Minister Dalli said the scheme encourages councils to put forward proposals for environmental projects in both existing spaces that need regeneration and in new sites.

The aim is to create more open spaces within local communities, including safe and accessible areas where families can spend time with their pets.

Parliamentary Secretary Bugeja Said explained that €50,000 will be allocated to each approved project, with a total investment of €750,000 under the scheme.

She said the initiative supports Malta’s Vision 2050, particularly the pillar focused on the sustainable use of land and sea. She thanked Animal Welfare and Project Green for their collaboration.

Project Green will provide funding for the development of dog parks and cat cafés, while Local Councils will be responsible for implementation and ongoing maintenance.

Conditions apply, including a minimum site size of 1,500 square metres, with at least 20 per cent of the area dedicated to animals.

The scheme is being administered by the Animal Welfare Directorate, which will accept applications until 30 April 2026.

More information here.

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