Picture this: the sun beating down on Buġibba square, a sea of umbrellas and sun loungers, yet not a single café or shop open. This isn’t a scene from a post-apocalyptic movie, but a reality that’s been unfolding for years in this once-thriving tourist hub. The reason? A long-running construction project that’s seen little progress, leaving the square in a state of disarray and local businesses struggling.

The Buġibba Square Saga

In 2014, the Buġibba square regeneration project began with much fanfare. The plan? To transform the square into a modern, vibrant space that would attract tourists and boost local economy. Seven years later, the square remains a construction site, with no end in sight. The project has become a symbol of government inefficiency, with each political party passing the buck.

In the heart of Malta’s tourist belt, Buġibba has always been a hub for holidaymakers. But the square’s decline has cast a shadow over the town’s reputation. “It’s embarrassing,” says Mario, a local shop owner who’s seen his business dwindle since the project began. “Tourists come here expecting a lively square, but they find a mess. They leave disappointed, and so do I.”

ADPD: Stronger Councils, Stronger Results

The Alternattiva Demokratika (ADPD) party has been vocal about the Buġibba square fiasco, blaming it on weak local councils and lack of political will. “This project is a perfect example of why we need stronger councils,” says ADPD’s Michael Briguglio. “Councils should have the power to push projects through, not be at the mercy of political whims.”

ADPD proposes giving councils more autonomy and resources, allowing them to manage projects independently. They also suggest involving local communities in decision-making processes to ensure projects meet their needs. “Buġibba’s residents and businesses should have a say in how their square is developed,” Briguglio adds.

Lessons from Other Towns

Malta’s other towns have their own tales of delayed projects and council struggles. But some, like Valletta and Sliema, have managed to transform their public spaces successfully. ADPD points to these examples as proof that stronger councils can deliver results.

“Look at Valletta,” says Briguglio. “The council there has been instrumental in the city’s regeneration. They’ve had a clear vision and the power to see it through. That’s what we need in all our towns, including Buġibba.”

Meanwhile, the Buġibba square project continues to languish. The latest estimates suggest it might be completed by 2023. But with each passing year, the square’s decline deepens, and so does the need for stronger councils.

As the sun sets on another day in Buġibba, the question remains: how much longer will this square be a symbol of political failure, and not the vibrant hub it was meant to be?