PROTESTERS GATHER AT MANOEL ISLAND OVER PADEL COURTS AND DEVELOPMENT CONCERNS

Protesters gathered at Manoel Island on Friday evening to voice their opposition to the development of 30 padel courts and what they described as the increasing commercialisation of the area.

The demonstration, organised by Moviment Graffitti, began at the entrance to Manoel Island before protesters marched towards Fort Manoel. Demonstrators chanted slogans and called for the island to remain a public space accessible to the community.

The protest followed the Planning Authority’s decision to approve a permit for the padel courts. According to Moviment Graffitti, 20 of the courts had already been constructed illegally on archaeological remains, raising further concerns about the impact of the development on the island’s heritage.

Moviment Graffitti said the decision could put the future of Manoel Island at risk and argued that it contradicts previous Government commitments to return the area to the public as a national park.

In a statement following the protest, the group said the turnout demonstrated that people remain willing to defend Manoel Island, even during the height of summer. It also questioned whether the Government would ensure that the island remains in public hands and called for clarity on future developments, including whether a casino could be permitted on the site.

The group urged the authorities to work towards a holistic plan focused on the common good, environmental protection and public access, while warning that its campaign to protect Manoel Island would continue.

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