‘Vote Owen, get George’ – NGO questions Nigret mega development

Imagine standing at the edge of the Grand Harbour, gazing at the iconic Three Cities, and wondering, “What if that skyline changed forever?” That’s the question on everyone’s lips as the Nigret mega development looms large, with an NGO now querying the political quid pro quo behind it.

From Owen to George: The Political Twist

In 2017, Owen Bonnici, then Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects, announced the Nigret development. Fast forward to 2021, and George Vella, the Prime Minister, is pushing for its fast-tracking. Coincidence? Not according to Din l-Art Ħelwa, Malta’s leading heritage NGO.

“Vote Owen, get George,” quips Din l-Art Ħelwa‘s Executive President, Mario Mizzi, referring to the political shift that’s seen the Nigret project gain momentum. “We’re questioning the political will behind this development. It’s not about the project itself, but the process and the lack of transparency.”

Nigret: A Giant Leap or a Stumble in Planning?

The Nigret development, a brainchild of the late architect Richard England, envisions a 37-story tower and a 22-story hotel on the Cottonera waterfront. Proponents hail it as a giant leap for Malta’s urban development. Critics, however, see it as a stumble in planning, threatening the historic skyline and increasing traffic congestion.

Mizzi argues, “We’re not against development. We’re against development that’s not sustainable, that doesn’t respect our heritage, and that’s not backed by a solid, transparent process.” He points to the lack of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and the absence of public consultation as red flags.

From Valletta to Nigret: A Tale of Two Developments

Compare Nigret with Valletta’s successful City Gate project. Both were controversial, but the latter involved extensive public consultation and an EIA. it respected Valletta’s historic fabric, enhancing rather than overshadowing it.

Mizzi draws parallels, “Valletta was a success because it was done right. Nigret, on the other hand, seems to be rushing ahead without learning from the past.”

Hot Malta reached out to the Prime Minister’s office for comment, but they declined to respond by press time.

What’s Next?

With the Nigret development still in its early stages, the battle lines are drawn. On one side, the government, pushing for fast-tracking. On the other, Din l-Art Ħelwa and other NGOs, demanding transparency and sustainability.

Mizzi concludes, “We’re not going to stand idly by while our heritage is threatened. We’ll continue to fight, to question, and to demand answers. After all, it’s our heritage, our city, and our future at stake.”

So, as you stand at the edge of the Grand Harbour, gazing at the Three Cities, remember, the future of that skyline is in your hands. Stay informed, stay engaged, and make your voice heard.