NGOs: Sliema Lido Reclamation ‘A Disaster in the Making’

Imagine standing on Balluta Bay, the sun dipping below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. Now, picture that view replaced by a wall of concrete and steel. This isn’t a scene from a dystopian film, but a very real possibility if the proposed Sliema lido land reclamation project goes ahead.

What’s the Plan?

The Sliema Local Council has proposed a €25 million project to reclaim land from the sea, creating a new lido and public spaces. The plan, however, has been met with fierce opposition from environmental groups and residents alike.

The project, if approved, would see the construction of a 300-metre breakwater stretching out into the sea, creating a new 1,500 square metre lido. But critics argue that the environmental cost is too high.

NGOs Sound the Alarm

Several NGOs, including BirdLife Malta and Din l-Art Ħelwa, have slammed the plans, describing them as ‘pure madness’. They argue that the project will cause significant environmental damage, destroying marine habitats and endangering wildlife.

“This is a disaster in the making,” said a spokesperson for BirdLife Malta. “The proposed lido will destroy important marine habitats, including seagrass beds and coral colonies, which support a wide range of wildlife.”

Din l-Art Ħelwa has also raised concerns about the visual impact of the project. “The proposed breakwater will scar the Sliema skyline, ruining the view for residents and tourists alike,” said a spokesperson.

Residents Weigh In

Residents of Sliema have also been vocal in their opposition to the plans. Many have taken to social media to express their concerns, with one resident commenting, “We moved to Sliema for the sea view, not to look at a concrete wall.”

A petition calling for the project to be scrapped has gathered thousands of signatures, with many residents arguing that the council should focus on improving existing public spaces rather than destroying marine habitats.

Council Stands Firm

Despite the opposition, the Sliema Local Council has stood firm in its support of the project. A spokesperson for the council argued that the new lido is needed to meet demand from tourists and residents alike.

“Sliema is one of the most densely populated areas in Malta, and we need more public spaces to meet the demand,” the spokesperson said. “The new lido will provide much-needed recreational facilities for residents and tourists.”

The council has also dismissed environmental concerns, arguing that the project has been designed to minimize its impact on marine habitats.

What’s Next?

The future of the project now hangs in the balance. The Planning Authority is expected to make a decision on the project in the coming months. In the meantime, environmental groups and residents have vowed to continue their fight against the plans.

“We won’t stop until this madness is stopped in its tracks,” said a spokesperson for BirdLife Malta. “We urge everyone to join us in calling for this project to be scrapped.”

To get involved, visit BirdLife Malta or Din l-Art Ħelwa to find out more about how you can help.