ADPD Urges Gov’t: Save Mellieħa’s Ġnien il-Kbira
ADPD’s Plea: Save Mellieħa’s Green Lung
Imagine strolling through a lush, green oasis, just a stone’s throw from the bustling streets of Mellieħa. Welcome to Ġnien il-Kbira, a 25-hectare plot of land that’s been a breath of fresh air for the local community for decades. Now, the Alternattiva Demokratika (ADPD) is calling on the government to reverse its decision to transfer this ‘green lung’ to the private sector.
From Public Park to Private Hands?
The government’s plans, revealed in a Cabinet document, propose transferring Ġnien il-Kbira to the Malta Industrial Parks Company. This, ADPD argues, could spell disaster for Mellieħa’s environment and quality of life. The party’s spokesperson, Michael Briguglio, has called the move “short-sighted and irresponsible,” warning that it could lead to increased traffic congestion and loss of green spaces.
“Ġnien il-Kbira is not just a park; it’s a vital lung for Mellieħa,” Briguglio told Hot Malta. “It provides a natural barrier against urban sprawl and helps mitigate the effects of climate change. We cannot allow it to be paved over for profit.”
Community Backlash and Alternatives
The proposed transfer has sparked outrage among Mellieħa residents. A petition launched by local activists has gathered thousands of signatures, while social media is abuzz with criticism. “We’ve already lost so much green space to development,” said one resident, Maria Grech. “We can’t let this happen.”
ADPD has proposed alternative solutions, including leasing the land to the local council for recreational and educational purposes, or using it to develop low-density, eco-friendly housing. Briguglio believes these options could provide a win-win situation, preserving Mellieħa’s green spaces while still generating revenue.
“We’re not against development, but it must be sustainable and in the best interests of the community,” Briguglio said. “Ġnien il-Kbira is too precious to be sacrificed for short-term gain.”
What’s Next?
The Cabinet document suggests that a final decision on the transfer could be made in the coming months. ADPD is urging the public to make their voices heard, calling on everyone who cares about Mellieħa’s future to sign the petition and make their feelings known to their local representatives.
“This is a fight we can’t afford to lose,” Briguglio said. “Ġnien il-Kbira is more than just a park – it’s a symbol of our community’s resilience and our commitment to preserving Malta’s natural heritage. We won’t let it go without a fight.”
