PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR ENERGY, THE ENVIRONMENT AND THE REGENERATION OF THE GRAND HARBOUR 85% of works completed on new garden in Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq

Works are progressing on the transformation of an abandoned site along Coast Road in Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq into Ġnien it-Tbissim, a modern public park covering around 5,500 square metres.

Minister for the Environment Miriam Dalli, together with members of the Local Council and the Project Green team, visited the site to review progress.

Today, 85% of the project has been completed.

“It is encouraging to see that we have reached the final stages of work on this new garden in Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq. What was once an abandoned area, often used for illegal dumping, is being transformed into a park, particularly designed for children of all ages to enjoy with their families. Once completed, the park will also feature a total of 500 trees, including 200 new trees currently being planted. In this way, we are combining biodiversity enhancement with high-quality recreational spaces for families,” said Minister Miriam Dalli.

Among the works carried out is the installation of natural hardstone paving, which enhances both the character and durability of the open space. The construction of sanitary facilities has also been completed, while work continues on installing playground equipment that will offer a wide range of activities for children and families. With most of the main infrastructure and facilities now in place, the project has entered its landscaping phase, during which new trees and plants are being introduced.

Existing native trees will be preserved, while additional native tree and plant species are being planted to improve the site’s natural habitat and strengthen local biodiversity.

Project Manager Dylan Abela Spiteri explained that one of the project’s primary objectives is to increase the site’s ecological value. “Through this project, we have introduced a greater variety of native species. Once the vegetation reaches maturity, the tree canopy is expected to cover around 57% of the entire site, providing approximately 3,135 square metres of natural shade,” said Dylan Abela Spiteri.

With an investment of nearly €1 million, the project is being financed through European Union funds under Measure 8.5 and forms part of the Community Greening Grant Scheme.