Revitalising the North: Village Cores to Benefit from Extended Restoration Scheme

Picture this: the sun dipping below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the narrow, winding streets of Xagħra. The village core, a labyrinth of history, is alive with the hum of local life. This is the heart of Malta’s Northern region, and it’s about to get a new lease on life. Why? Because the government has just extended its restoration scheme to include village cores in the north.

What’s in Store for the North?

The scheme, initially focused on the Three Cities, is now set to breathe new life into the cores of villages like Xagħra, Rabat, and Mellieħa. The aim? To restore and enhance the unique character of these historic areas, making them more vibrant, attractive, and sustainable. Think of it as a facelift for our heritage, a chance to showcase our past while embracing the future.

The restoration scheme will target public spaces, streets, and squares. Imagine cobblestone streets being carefully restored, old buildings getting a fresh coat of paint, and new public spaces being created. It’s a vision of our heritage being preserved, not just for us, but for future generations.

Local Businesses: A Boost in the Forecast

But it’s not just about aesthetics. This scheme is also set to boost local businesses. Think of the bustling cafes and shops in the heart of Rabat. With improved public spaces and increased footfall, these businesses are poised for growth. It’s a win-win: our villages get a facelift, and our local economy gets a boost.

the scheme encourages sustainable practices. Think of more green spaces, better waste management, and improved accessibility for all. It’s about creating spaces that are not just beautiful, but also functional and sustainable.

Getting Involved: Your Village, Your Voice

But this isn’t just a top-down initiative. The scheme encourages local involvement. From Xagħra to Mellieħa, each village will have its own committee to guide the restoration process. This means your voice matters. It’s your chance to shape the future of your village.

So, what’s next? Well, the government is currently finalising the details of the scheme. But one thing’s for sure: change is coming to the village cores of the North. And it’s a change that promises to preserve our past, enhance our present, and secure our future.

As Xagħra resident and local historian, Joseph Xuereb, puts it, “This scheme is about more than just bricks and mortar. It’s about preserving our identity, our culture, our very soul.”

So, let’s embrace this change. Let’s celebrate our heritage, support our local businesses, and create spaces that we can all be proud of. Because this is our North, our heritage, our future.