Richard England, one of Malta’s most prominent architects, has launched a tirade against the country’s construction industry, warning the lack of a master plan for development means the island is hurdling down a black hole.

“I remember Malta as a virgin… which implies that it is now a whore,” England, 81, said in a recent interview with The Times of Malta. “We have the lost the plot. We are on a pathway to a black hole and it’s not going to change because construction is a money-making machine… unless the bubble bursts, which I think it will.”

“Meanwhile, people have money in their pockets and aren’t interested in what is happening at the top.”

England, renowned for designing the Millennium Chapel, the St James Cavalier, the Love Sign and the White Shadows monument, quoted the Roman architect Vitruvius in saying that architecture is about commodity, firmness and delight.

“However, if the focus is only on the first two qualities, they merely add up to construction, which is what Malta is littered with,” he said.

England urged the Planning Authority to design a masterplan for development, which could well incorporate high-rise buildings but would also see roads and other infrastructure planned around them.

For example, he warned that the towers planned for Sliema would see thousands more people move to the town, leading to more traffic on roads that cannot be widened.

“I am disappointed to see my native land, which I love, and which inspired me with its unique heritage, gradually destroying the very spirit of the place,” he said. “I can do my reading and my writing and listen to my music, which in a way are an escape. I can block my ears and speak my mind. I don’t wish to sound arrogant, but I have made my contribution.”

Cover photo: Cranes over Bugibba and St Paul’s Bay, Circle photo: Richard England (Photo: Archilovers)

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Tim Diacono

Tim is interested in the rapid evolution of human society and is passionate about justice, human rights and cutting-edge political debates. You can follow him on Instagram or Twitter/X at @timdiacono or reach out to him at [email protected]