PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR ENERGY, THE ENVIRONMENT AND THE REGENERATION OF THE GRAND HARBOUR Works underway on two gardens in Mtarfa

Works are underway in Mtarfa on two regeneration projects that will transform two previously unused sites into green and recreational spaces for the community.

The projects, led by Project Green in collaboration with the Mtarfa Local Council, will create a fruit tree garden covering approximately 3,000 square metres and another garden of around 550 square metres in the area known as Depiro.

Environment Minister Miriam Dalli visited both sites together with representatives from Project Green and the Mtarfa Local Council to review the progress of the works.

The first project is located within the former Mtarfa barracks area, where approximately 3,000 square metres of land are being regenerated into a garden featuring fruit trees. The project will substantially increase the planted area on the site and create a natural environment for residents and the wider public to enjoy.

In addition to tree planting, the intervention includes additional benches and street furniture, spaces for recreation, relaxation and educational activities, as well as the restoration of the existing reservoirs, which form part of the site’s historic features. Works by the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage are also currently taking place on the site. Once completed, the garden will also provide opportunities for the public to learn more about fruit trees and the natural environment.

A second project is being carried out on land known as Depiro, located between the Depiro Sports Complex, Mtarfa’s main square and residential blocks. The approximately 550-square-metre site, which has remained unused for several years, will be transformed into a modern and accessible open space.

New trees and shrubs will be planted, a basketball facility will be created, and benches and street furniture will be installed. Solar-powered lighting will also be introduced, allowing the space to be used more safely and accessibly during the evening. The project is being implemented in coordination with the Mtarfa Local Council and the Depiro Sports Complex.

“In Mtarfa, we are giving a new lease of life to two spaces that have remained unused for many years and transforming them into places that will directly serve the community. One site will become a garden with around 160 fruit trees, while at the other we are bringing together more greenery with space for sport and recreation. This is the purpose of our investment: to bring more green spaces closer to where people live and create quality environments for children, young people and families,” said Minister Miriam Dalli.

Both projects have been designed to combine stronger environmental elements with facilities that can be enjoyed by the community, while respecting the particular characteristics of each site.

“Through these projects, Project Green continues to invest in transforming existing spaces into greener, more accessible areas that benefit the community. The interventions focus on increasing greenery, improving infrastructure and creating spaces for recreation and relaxation, with the aim of delivering quality environments that residents and families can enjoy,” said Liana Saliba Gazzano, Head of Project Implementation at Project Green.