The petition is backed by the Manoel Island: Post Għalina (A Place For Us) campaign, spearheaded by Moviment Graffitti and Flimkien għal Ambjent Aħjar (FAA), and supported by more than 40 organisations — from environmental NGOs to fitness and mental health groups. Even the Church’s Environmental Commission has thrown its support behind the movement.

Campaigner Robert Louis Fenech said the widespread support is “encouraging” and shows people haven’t lost hope in their power to make a difference.

He pointed out that ongoing negotiations between the government and MIDI, the private company with a 99-year lease on the island, represent a once-in-a-generation opportunity for change. MIDI is currently in talks with the state to extend a deadline originally set for March 2026, when the entire development was meant to be completed.

“With MIDI and the government already around the table, the public now has a window to act – something we haven’t had in 25 years, and likely won’t again,” Fenech said.

MIDI’s current plans for Manoel Island include around 400 luxury apartments, a hotel, and commercial developments, including at the historic Lazzaretto – Europe’s oldest plague hospital.

FAA Coordinator Astrid Vella stressed the island’s untapped potential. “Once restored, Manoel Island could become a green haven where locals and visitors alike can reconnect with Malta’s rich history.”

The petition calls on parliament to negotiate with MIDI to bring Manoel Island back under public ownership, scrap the planned private residences, and turn the space into a green, open park with recreational spaces and restored heritage sites.

Campaigners say they’re ramping up their efforts — and they’re calling on “those who dare to dream” to add their names to the growing list of supporters.

You can sign the petition here.

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