Marsa’s Spencer Gardens Works See More Mature ‘Invasive’ Trees Uprooted
Works taking place in Marsa’s Spencer Gardens saw more mature trees being uprooted right next to the Environment and Research Authority’s (ERA) offices yesterday.
Spencer Gardens are currently being rehabilitated and embellished to create a new public garden allowing more open, sustainable, spaces and appropriate green facilities.
Sources close to Lovin Malta reported that at least one mature eucalyptus tree came down yesterday, another species that is being considered “invasive”. However, ERA has claimed it was a Causarina that was uprooted.
“The fact remains clear, however, removing trees just because they’re non-indigenous is a terrible idea. It destroys ecosystems that develop around trees, trees that have taken decades to grow. This mentality is sick and deranged really,” they told Lovin Malta.
“Especially because it takes so long for trees to grow. Where will our birds go? Where will our insects and fauna go?”
Lovin Malta reached out to ERA for a comment, who said that only one mature Causarina was removed from the area, “due to poor health”.
“The project includes the planting of 67 new native trees, as well as other indigenous plants, and other species compatible with our local environment.”
“The project works are being carried out in line with the approved plans. No indigenous trees are being uprooted, except for one cypress which needs to be removed as it is in a poor state of health.”
“However, some invasive alien species which are damaging the area’s environment need to be removed as well. These invasive species are prohibiting adequate natural vegetation to grow within the gardens.”
“Such invasive species include Acacia, Casuarina, Eucalyptus, and Pittosporum. They are known to have a negative impact on our biodiversity and related natural resources and are also listed as invasive under the Trees and Woodland Protection Regulations due to the damage they cause to the environment,” they claimed.
“The removal of these invasive trees will ensure better use of resources, including water use, and the planting of more appropriate species that are better adapted to the local climate regime.”
“Malta is obliged to remove various invasive species as part of its international obligations, including the Control of Invasive Alien Species of European Union Concern Regulations and the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity.”
The project includes the establishment of new gardens, with native trees and plants. The new gardens will be thematic and include different levels.
The project is also said to see the introduction of appropriate green infrastructure, the construction of reservoirs to harvest rainwater, a new irrigation system, energy-efficient lighting powered by solar panels, and sound barriers along its perimeter.
They also explained how access to the garden will be improved, while new CCTV cameras will ensure added security for visitors. Spencer Gardens will also comprise a new tree nursery, which will be used to grow a local tree stock for afforestation projects.
The new garden is planned to be opened to the public in 2024, with many more trees and plants than there are now, to gradually establish a greener, more sustainable environment in this urban area.
What do you make of these recent works?
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