Ħal Għaxaq’s 25,000 sqm Green Makeover Underway
In the heart of Ħal Għaxaq, a once-neglected 25,000 square metre plot is undergoing a remarkable transformation. The open space, located just off Triq San Pawl, is being revived as a green lung for the community, a project that’s been a long time coming.
From Neglect to New Life
For years, this vast expanse of land was an eyesore, overgrown with weeds and littered with debris. But thanks to a joint initiative by the Local Council and the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA), the area is now seeing a dramatic makeover. “We’ve always known this space had potential,” says Mayor of Ħal Għaxaq, Dr. Joseph Farrugia. “It’s great to finally see it happening.”
What’s in Store for Ħal Għaxaq’s New Green Space
The plans for the area are ambitious. The project, dubbed ‘Ħal Għaxaq Green Heart’, includes the creation of walking paths, picnic areas, a children’s play zone, and even a small lake. There will also be plenty of greenery, with native plants and trees set to be planted. “We want to create a space that’s not just beautiful, but also functional and sustainable,” explains ERA’s Project Manager, Mario Vella.
But it’s not just about aesthetics. The project aims to tackle Ħal Għaxaq’s urban heat island effect, a phenomenon where urban areas experience higher temperatures than rural areas due to human activities and the urban scene. By increasing green spaces, the project hopes to mitigate this effect, making the town a cooler, more comfortable place to live.
Community Involvement: Ħal Għaxaq’s Green Heart Beats for All
From the outset, the project has involved the local community. Residents have been consulted on the plans, and many have volunteered to help with the clean-up and planting efforts. “This is our space, our project,” says local resident and volunteer, Maria Camilleri. “We’re excited to see it grow and flourish.”
The project is expected to be completed by the end of the year. Once finished, Ħal Għaxaq’s new green space will not only be a testament to the power of community involvement but also a shining example of how urban planning can benefit both people and the environment.
