NGOs up in arms as Sliema lido reclamation plans threaten coastal gem

Sliema, Malta’s bustling coastal town, is no stranger to controversy. But the latest plans to reclaim land from the sea at its popular lido have sparked outrage among environmental NGOs, who’ve dubbed the project ‘pure madness’.

What’s at stake: Sliema’s coastal jewel

Tucked between the iconic Tower Road and the Mediterranean Sea, Sliema’s lido is more than just a beach. It’s a beloved local hangout, a tourist hotspot, and a crucial habitat for marine life. The proposed land reclamation, however, threatens to reshape this coastal gem forever.

Plans submitted by local developers envision a sprawling new complex, complete with luxury apartments, shops, and restaurants. But environmentalists warn that the project could spell disaster for the lido’s delicate ecosystem and the town’s character.

NGOs sound the alarm

Several NGOs, including Friends of the Earth Malta and Marine Life Malta, have slammed the plans, arguing that the environmental impact has been grossly underestimated.

“This is not just about losing a beach,” says Alexei Pace, a spokesperson for Friends of the Earth Malta. “It’s about destroying a unique coastal habitat, disrupting marine life, and changing the face of Sliema forever.”

Local residents and businesses divided

Reactions among locals and business owners have been mixed. While some welcome the promise of new jobs and economic growth, others fear the loss of the lido’s charm and the potential strain on infrastructure.

“The lido is Sliema’s lungs,” says Maria, a local resident who’s lived in the area for decades. “It’s where we go to breathe, to relax, to watch the sunset. I can’t imagine it being replaced by concrete and glass.”

Meanwhile, business owners like Tony, who runs a popular beachside café, are torn. “Business is booming because of the lido,” he says. “But I also understand the environmental concerns. It’s a tough one.”

What’s next?

The plans are currently under review by the Planning Authority. Environmentalists are urging the public to voice their concerns, while developers insist that the project can co-exist with the lido’s natural beauty.

“We’re not trying to destroy the lido,” says a spokesperson for the developers. “We’re trying to create something new that respects and enhances the area’s unique character.”

whether this ambitious project will become a reality, or if Sliema’s lido will remain untouched, a testament to Malta’s coastal charm.