New Sensory Community Garden in Pembroke Opens
A new sensory community garden has officially opened in Pembroke, offering residents of Dar Warda an inclusive green space designed to build confidence, encourage participation, and strengthen their connection with nature.
Named Ġnien il-Ward, the project transforms an unused outdoor area into an accessible garden where residents take the lead in planting, caring for greenery, and maintaining custom-built planters created entirely from recycled materials. The garden was inaugurated by Minister Miriam Dalli, Minister Julia Farrugia, the Project Green team, Aġenzija Sapport, the Pembroke Local Council, and Dar Warda residents.
Minister Miriam Dalli described the garden as a model of what community-focused green spaces should represent, a place shaped with the direct involvement of the people who use it every day. She said Ġnien il-Ward shows how sustainability, participation, and mutual care can strengthen well-being and dignity. What makes the space special, she added, is that its caretakers are the residents themselves, proving that natural spaces belong to everyone, regardless of age, background, or ability. She noted that investing in green spaces is also an investment in community health, biodiversity and long-term resilience.
Minister Julia Farrugia praised the initiative as an example of inclusive and sustainable design, where residents are provided with a safe environment to learn gardening skills, gain independence, and develop a sense of responsibility. She highlighted the importance of collaboration between ministries and agencies such as Aġenzija Sapport, noting that this model helps build bridges between care residents and the wider community.
Ġnien il-Ward places strong emphasis on sensory engagement, social inclusion and hands-on learning. The garden includes edible plants, roses and young trees chosen to reflect the identity and atmosphere of Dar Warda. Residents participate in guided workshops, learn about planting and harvesting, and develop teamwork and confidence through shared gardening routines. Planter structures — which double as seating, offer both function and accessibility while supporting daily outdoor activities.
The project also addressed various practical challenges, including the need for accessible pathways, supporting residents with different sensory needs, and ensuring long-term care of the plants. With ongoing guidance, Dar Warda residents have taken ownership of the space, fully embracing their roles as stewards of the garden.
As the newly planted trees and shrubs continue to grow, they will gradually offer more shade, colour, and character, helping shape Ġnien il-Ward into a peaceful community retreat in the heart of Pembroke.
Architect Cheryl Camilleri from Project Green said the initiative is as much about inclusion as it is about sustainability. She explained that the goal is to ensure every resident can enjoy hands-on gardening, with the space serving not only as a green area but as a place where skills, confidence, and community spirit can flourish.
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