Balluta_news

Balluta carpark 'about turn' - 30 November 2009

The residents of St Julian's have spoken and been heard - the local council have dropped their proposal to provide about 100 underground carpark spaces (whilst simultaneously eliminating 70 surface car spaces) in the open area at Balluta near the new Meridan Hotel. 

Those that attended will know that it was hard not to hear the resident's voice since the meeting was attended by scores of angry locals who commented loudly throughout the architect's presentation.  What the meeting lacked in decorum, it made up for in excitement. 

Given the respectable, grey haired audience such strength of feeling must surely impress the authorities.  These were not young radicals (sadly few below the age of 40 attended the meeting), but mainly indignant householders who could not believe that millions of Euro could be poured into an underground carpark in the wrong place...

The inclusion of 'green' tinges to the plans (electric cars and bright yellow water taxis) did not please or appease the audience.  Whilst 'nice-to-have' in the summer, such services did not seem a credible alternative to buses or walking given the routes indicated.  Further reports are online at the 'Times of Malta' website dated 30th November and 27th November for details of the proceedings.

One must compliment the St Julians Local Council on holding this meeting and hearing the public outcry.  It might have been wiser to consult sooner, but it is good that the decision was aired in the end and before it was too late. 

It is sincerely hoped that other councils will take note of this event and not attempt to push through unpopular plans at public expense in future.