‘Pure Butchery’: Moviment Graffiti Raises Concerns Over Infrastructure Malta’s Pruning Of Trees Along Valley Road
Moviment Graffitti has raised concerns over Infrastructure Malta’s decision to prune 145 mature ficus trees lining Valley Road, between Msida and Birkirkara.
Today, the NGO called on Infrastructure Malta and its Minister Chris Bonett to reveal the rationale behind the decision to prune the mature trees along Valley Road, labelling the work a “pure and condemnable butchery”, adding that it could be “another example of blatant disregard” for trees.
The organisation also requested assurances that the work would be conducted by skilled and capable individuals and would be under continuous surveillance by the authorities due to its “sensitive” and “delicate” nature.
The tender document issued by Infrastructure Malta outlines plans for the hard pruning of the trees’ canopy by up to six metres, as well as the removal of low-hanging branches and those close to nearby buildings.
In an open letter addressing Bonett and Infrastructure Malta, the NGO questioned the necessity of such extensive pruning, particularly the proposed six-meter reduction, which it argues would “utterly destroy” the canopy.
While acknowledging the need for light pruning of low-hanging branches, Moviment Graffitti asserts that the extent of pruning outlined in the tender document goes beyond what is necessary.
The NGO went on to express its concerns about the selected contractor Nicholas Mizzi, calling his lack of experience in managing projects of this nature “worrying”.
“Nicholas Mizzi Gardening Services and Water Transport does not appear to have any prior experience in managing projects of such size that require considerable sensitivity,” Moviment Graffitti stated.
“Without prejudice to Mr. Mizzi or his employees’ professionalism, we are concerned that the tender issued by Infrastructure Malta sought only to choose the cheapest bid, without any consideration for the bidders’ competence,” the NGO continued.
The organisation then went on to address has addressed a series of questions to Bonett and Infrastructure Malta, seeking clarification on the pruning plan, the rationale behind the extent of pruning, and the supervision of the work.
1. What is the exact plan for the trees in question? Will any of the branches making up the canopy be pruned
2. What is the reason for the “hard pruning”, and why is a limit of “up to 6m” provided, when this would utterly destroy the canopy?
3. Can you provide the ERA permit allowing this work to be conducted, that was referred to in the tender document?
4. Has any evidence of previous work of similar scope been requested of the preferred bidder? If so, has this been found to be satisfactory?
5. The Minister has indicated that Infrastructure Malta will be on-site to supervise the work. Can the Agency indicate the extent of this supervision, and whether it is round-the-clock, daily, weekly, or ad hoc?
6. Can Infrastructure Malta guarantee that the job will be carried out with the expertise and sensitivity required?
Do you agree with Moviment Graffitti?
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