‘I live in fear’: Residents raise alarm over St Julian’s Cresta Quay excavation

Every morning, as the sun peeks over the Mediterranean, residents of St Julian’s wake up to a sight that’s become all too familiar – the towering cranes and dusty chaos of the Cresta Quay construction site. But for many, this isn’t just an eyesore; it’s a source of fear and anxiety.

Digging Up Dust, Stirring Up Fears

Cresta Quay, a €150 million project, promises to transform this bustling seaside town into a ‘smart city’ with luxury apartments, offices, and a yacht marina. But the excavation works, which began last year, have already caused concern. Residents complain of constant noise, dust, and vibrations that have cracked walls and damaged properties.

“I live in fear,” says Maria, a 65-year-old retiree who has lived in her apartment near the site for over 30 years. “I’m scared the vibrations will cause my building to collapse. I’ve had to move out temporarily, and I’m not sure when I can go back.”

Stuck in the Middle: Developers and Residents

The developers, Tumas Group, insist they are following all regulations and have even set up a 24/7 helpline for residents to report issues. However, many residents feel they are not being heard. Protests have been held, and petitions signed, but the excavation continues.

“We understand the concerns of the residents,” says a spokesperson for Tumas Group. “But we are committed to this project. It will bring significant benefits to St Julian’s and Malta as a whole.”

Regulations and Red Tape

The Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) has received numerous complaints but maintains that the project has all the necessary permits. Critics argue that MEPA’s approval process is too lenient, allowing projects like Cresta Quay to proceed despite potential harm to residents.

Dr. Arnold Cassola, a long-time environmental activist, believes the situation highlights the need for stricter regulations. “We need to prioritize the well-being of people over profit,” he says. “The current system favors developers too much.”

: A Balanced Approach?

The Cresta Quay saga has sparked a wider debate about development in Malta. Can the country grow and modernize without sacrificing the quality of life of its residents? As the excavation continues, all eyes are on the authorities to ensure that the rights of both developers and residents are balanced.

“We just want to live in peace,” says Maria, her voice steady despite the noise from the site nearby. “We’re not against development, but it should be done in a way that doesn’t harm us.”

As the sun sets over St Julian’s, casting a golden glow over the construction site, the question remains: at what cost does progress come?