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

Standing at the corner of Triq San Pawl and Triq il-Kbira in Rabat, one can’t help but notice the towering billboards. They’re not promoting the latest blockbuster or a political candidate, but a mega development project that’s got an NGO crying foul. The signs read, ‘Vote Owen, get George,’ a play on words that’s got locals talking and scratching their heads.

Owen’s Promise, George’s Reality?

The billboards are a reference to Owen Bonnici, Malta’s former Minister of Justice, and George Vella, the current President. The message, according to the NGO Flimkien Għal Ambjent Aħjar (FAA), is that voting for Owen Bonnici’s Labour Party in the last election has led to George Vella’s presidency, but also to a slew of mega developments like Nigret, a 23-story high-rise in Rabat.

FAA argues that these developments are not in line with the country’s best interests, let alone the local council’s master plan. “We’re not against development,” says Mark Mallia, FAA’s coordinator. “But it’s got to be sustainable, respect the environment, and serve the community’s needs.”

Nigret: A Tale of Two Developments

The Nigret project, a brainchild of the Gasan Group, was initially approved as a 12-story building. But after a change in government and a revision of the development rules, the project was revised to a whopping 23 stories. FAA argues that this is a clear example of how changes in political leadership can impact development projects.

“We’re not saying that the government should stop all development,” Mallia explains. “But they should ensure that these projects are in the best interest of the community, not just the developers.”

Community Concerns and the Fight Ahead

The Nigret project, like many others, has sparked concerns about overdevelopment, traffic congestion, and the loss of green spaces. Residents worry about the strain on local infrastructure and the potential impact on property values.

FAA is not alone in its fight. Other NGOs and local councils have joined the cause, calling for a more balanced approach to development. They argue that Malta’s small size and finite resources demand a more sustainable and equitable approach.

As the Nigret project moves forward, FAA and other NGOs are gearing up for a fight. They’re not just opposing individual projects, but challenging the very system that allows such developments to happen. “We’re not against progress,” Mallia says. “But we want progress that’s sustainable, equitable, and respects our environment and our communities.”

if their efforts will bear fruit. But one thing’s for sure, the ‘Vote Owen, get George’ billboards have started a conversation that’s not likely to end anytime soon.