Watch: Prime Minister Announces Axing of Manoel Island Development Plans
Prime Minister Robert Abela has confirmed that the development project planned for Manoel Island will be scrapped, in an interview with Karl Bonaci.
“We have sealed an agreement with MIDI ensuring that the project will be scrapped. The second phase of the plan for Manoel Island is about to start,” said Abela.
The Prime Minister said that he visualises a national park that can be enjoyed by the nation, explaining that he does not want to see the historical buildings found on Manoel Island run down or left underappreciated.
The controversial project is set to be scrapped with no buildings to be constructed by MIDI Consortium. Abela said that negotiations are ongoing with the developers to revise the agreement.
The project included residential buildings, a commercial centre and a marina. However, it was shrouded in controversy and opposition with a petition against it acquiring over 29,000 signatures. Eventually, the public outrage convinced both the government and the Nationalist Party to support the idea of turning Manoel Island into a national park.
During the interview, Abela reiterated his criticism of the deal that was struck between MIDI and the Nationalist Party, which had been in government at the time.
Do you think Abela made the right decision?
READ NEXT: Sea Off Wilġa Street In St Julian’s Officially Safe To Swim In
