Pembroke Residents: No Goal for Football Campus
Pembroke Residents and Activists: ‘No Goal’ for Football Campus
Imagine this: the hum of traffic along Triq il-Kuncizzjoni, Pembroke, replaced by the roar of football fans. This isn’t a scene from a Hollywood movie, but a reality that Pembroke residents and activists are determined to prevent. They’re urging the government to withdraw its proposal for a new football campus right in the heart of their community.
From Green Space to Football Pitches
The proposed campus, earmarked for the former St. George’s Barracks site, would see green spaces transformed into football pitches, a hotel, and other facilities. While the government argues that this will boost sports tourism, residents and activists fear it will lead to increased traffic congestion, noise pollution, and a loss of green lung in an already densely populated area.
“We’re not against sports or development,” says Maria Attard, a Pembroke resident and one of the leading activists. “But this is the wrong place for such a project. We need to protect our remaining green spaces, not pave them over.”
Activists Take Their Stand
Activists have been vocal in their opposition, with regular protests and petitions gaining traction. They’ve also received support from environmental groups and opposition politicians. The Malta Developers Association, however, has backed the project, arguing that it will bring jobs and economic benefits to the area.
“We understand the need for development, but not at the expense of our quality of life,” says Attard. “We’re not going to let this happen without a fight.”
The government, meanwhile, has been tight-lipped about the project’s status, with no official statements since the proposal was first announced. However, sources close to the matter suggest that the project is still very much on the table.
What’s Next?
Activists are planning more protests and are urging the public to sign their petition. They’re also considering legal action if the government doesn’t withdraw the proposal. The government, on the other hand, is expected to make a decision on the project’s fate in the coming months.
“We’re not going to give up,” says Attard. “We’ll keep fighting until our voices are heard and this project is withdrawn.”
