‘We will fight this obscenity’ – Pembroke residents oppose football club plans

In the heart of Pembroke, a quiet residential area known for its tree-lined streets and historic villas, a storm is brewing. Residents are up in arms, not over a noisy neighbour or a stray cat, but over a proposal that could see a professional football club move into their backyard. The plans, submitted by Malta’s top-tier football club, Hibernians FC, have sparked a fierce debate, with locals vowing to fight what they see as an ‘obscenity’.

From Green Spaces to Football Pitches

At the centre of the controversy is a plot of land located between Triq il-Kbira and Triq Santa Venera, currently a green space enjoyed by locals and their pets. Hibernians FC, one of Malta’s most successful football clubs, has proposed to build a state-of-the-art training facility on this land, including a full-size football pitch, a gym, and offices. The club argues that the new facility is necessary to keep up with European standards and attract top talent.

However, Pembroke residents see it differently. “This is not just a green space, it’s our lungs,” says Maria Azzopardi, a long-time Pembroke resident. “We’ve already lost so much green space to development. We can’t just give up this one too.” The proposed site is just a stone’s throw away from the historic Pembroke Gardens, a green lung that has been a sanctuary for locals and tourists alike.

Traffic Concerns and Noise Pollution

Beyond the loss of green space, residents have raised concerns about increased traffic and noise pollution. Triq il-Kbira, the main road leading to the proposed site, is already congested during peak hours. Residents fear that the new training facility will exacerbate the situation, turning their quiet streets into a bustling thoroughfare.

Noise pollution is another major concern. While Hibernians FC has assured residents that the facility will operate within reasonable hours, residents point out that football training sessions can be noisy affairs, especially when cheers and whistles are factored in. “We’re not against the club,” says Joseph Xuereb, another Pembroke resident. “But we can’t have our quality of life compromised like this.”

Residents Fight Back

Residents have formed a pressure group, ‘Pembroke United’, to fight the proposed development. They have launched a petition, held public meetings, and even engaged a legal team to study the planning application. The group has also garnered support from environmental NGOs and other residents’ groups across Malta.

“We will fight this obscenity,” says Maria Azzopardi, her voice echoing the determination of her fellow residents. “We’ve already lost so much. We won’t let this happen on our watch.”

The Planning Authority is expected to make a decision on the proposed development in the coming months. In the meantime, Pembroke residents remain vigilant, ready to defend their green space and their quality of life.