Prime Minister Confirms Manoel Island Will Become a National Park

Speaking exclusively to Malta Daily on Sunday morning, Prime Minister Robert Abela confirmed that Manoel Island will be transformed into a national park.

Abela reaffirmed his commitment to deliver the project, stating that he continued to meet stakeholders in the past week and is giving his word to the public that “this project will happen.” He admitted the initiative will be a major challenge, costing millions not only to retrieve the land but also to develop it.

The Prime Minister described his vision as creating “a jewel for Malta and Gozo, a central lung filled with greenery, afforestation and trees.” He stressed that the park would prioritise simplicity over concrete, offering a natural environment for Maltese families to relax, exercise, enjoy recreational activities, and spend quality time together, including designated areas for pets.

Abela also revealed that discussions are ongoing on other major environmental projects, though he said details cannot yet be made public.

The Manoel Island site has been subject to debate for decades. Historically leased to private developers, the land was earmarked for large-scale residential and commercial projects, sparking widespread controversy and resistance from environmentalists and residents. Campaigners, including groups such as Flimkien għal Ambjent Aħjar and Moviment Graffitti, argued that the island should remain a public space and not be lost to real estate development.

In recent years, the MIDI consortium, which held the concession to develop the island, faced mounting pressure from civil society and the general public to scale back its original plans. Concerns focused on overdevelopment, loss of heritage value, and the environmental impact on Marsamxett Harbour. Following a long process of negotiations, several proposals were revised to allow more open public access, but many still feared the island would be commercialised.

Today’s announcement marks a significant shift in direction, with the government committing to reclaim the land for the public and turn it into a national park

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