Fear Grips St Julian’s Residents as Cresta Quay Excavation Uncovers Unknowns

It’s 7 am, and the usually bustling St Julian’s promenade is eerily quiet. The source of the unease? A gaping hole where the once peaceful Cresta Quay stood, now a hive of activity as excavation works continue. Residents, however, aren’t celebrating the start of a new development. Instead, they’re living in fear, unsure of what lies beneath their feet.

Uncovering the Past, Stirring the Present

Cresta Quay, a stretch of land along St Julian’s Point, has been earmarked for a multi-million euro development. But as excavation works began, so did the unease among residents. “We’re waking up to the sound of drilling every morning,” complains Maria, a long-time resident of nearby St George’s Road. “But it’s not the noise that’s bothering us. It’s what they’re finding.”

The excavation has unearthed remnants of World War II bombings, as well as what appears to be an old smuggling tunnel. While historians are excited about the finds, residents are worried. “We don’t know what else is down there,” says Tony, another concerned resident. “It could be anything – more bombs, asbestos, who knows?”

Regulations and Reassurances

The Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) has issued a statement assuring residents that all necessary precautions are being taken. “The developers are following strict protocols to ensure the safety of both workers and residents,” the statement reads. Yet, some residents remain skeptical. “We’ve seen the safety measures,” says Maria. “But we’re not convinced. We want independent experts to assess the situation.”

MEPA has also confirmed that the developers have the necessary permits for the excavation and development. However, some residents argue that these permits were issued without adequate consideration for the potential hazards. “We’re not against development,” says Tony. “But it should be done safely and responsibly. And that means addressing our concerns.”

: A Call for Transparency

As the excavation continues, so does the anxiety among St Julian’s residents. They’re calling for more transparency from both the developers and MEPA. “We want to know what they’re finding, and what they’re doing about it,” says Maria. “We deserve to know what’s happening in our own backyard.”

In the meantime, life in St Julian’s goes on, but with a sense of unease. The once peaceful promenade is now a stark reminder of the unknowns lurking beneath. what else lies hidden at Cresta Quay. But one thing is certain – the residents of St Julian’s deserve answers and reassurances.

“We’re not asking for much,” says Tony. “Just some peace of mind. That’s all we want.”