Official Legal Protections Approved For White Rocks As National Park

The Cabinet of Ministers has approved the publication of a Legal Notice that will officially designate White Rocks as a National Park, giving the site legal protection and ensuring it is preserved for public enjoyment and environmental conservation.

Under the new designation, public access, recreational use and the protection of the area's natural environment will be given the highest priority.

Project Green will be responsible for managing and administering the National Park.

The move forms part of the Government's commitment to safeguard public parks and gardens created in recent years by providing them with legal protection against any future development. The designation of White Rocks also fulfils another pledge made in the Government's electoral manifesto.

The announcement comes as part of a wider legislative programme advanced during the opening weeks of the current legislature. The Government said it has already introduced or completed several key reforms before Parliament's summer recess, with White Rocks becoming one of the latest initiatives aimed at protecting public spaces.

Alongside the National Park designation, the Government has introduced planning reforms that would prevent development or new construction from starting while planning permits remain under appeal. The proposed legislation also introduces clear timelines to provide greater certainty throughout the planning process.

Other recent measures include constitutional amendments recognising disability as a protected characteristic, legislation to establish a National Human Rights and Equality Commission, reforms to strengthen the voluntary sector, expanded access to Pre-implantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders, and new laws aimed at reinforcing the rule of law and increasing the independence of the Specialised Administrative Tribunals.

The designation of White Rocks as a National Park marks a significant step in protecting one of Malta's public open spaces, ensuring it remains dedicated to conservation, recreation and public access for generations to come.

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