Over 21,000 People Sign Manoel Island Petition

Around 21,800 people have signed the petition entitled ‘Manoel Island: A Place For Us’, which aims to save and turn Manoel Island into a park in the heart of Malta’s most densely populated area.

Manoel Island, often referred to as the “green lung” of the North Harbour area, serves as a vital open space for approximately 150,000 residents and countless workers in the region.

In 2000, Parliament unanimously approved the transfer of this significant public asset into private hands, paving the way for the development of luxury residences and commercial properties.

Although the lease extends until 2099, the agreement stipulates that substantial completion of both the Tigné and Manoel Island phases must occur by 2026.

Should the developer fail to meet this deadline, the Government has the right to reclaim the entire concession. As the 2026 deadline approaches, the lessee and the Government are currently engaged in negotiations to potentially extend the completion timeframe.

The petition aims to negotiate with the lessee to return Manoel Island to public ownership and turn it into a park.

This would see the planned residences replaced with green open spaces and recreational facilities, whilst also restoring and preserving the heritage of Manoel Island. You can sign the petition here.

#MaltaDaily