In 2020/21, Moviment Graffitti collaborated with the Faculty for the Built Environment and other groups on a project to imagine new uses for White Rocks.

Quoting from the brief presented to students at the time:

“We contend that privatisation of public spaces is a tried and tested policy that has been shown to consistently offer the public very little in return for the irreversible loss of land. In light of this, we want to try something different.

“Moviment Graffitti is therefore exploring ideas for a new kind of development. Development that is formulated hand-in-hand with local communities, not imposed from above. Development that provides non-commercial spaces conducive to cultural experiences. Development that looks to the needs of people, not GDP. Development that includes the ecological wellbeing of the site as a cardinal point, not as an afterthought.

“What would such a development look like?”

These words take on greater significance today, as the process begins to turn White Rocks, as well as Manoel Island, into places that serve the needs of the many, not the few.

It is deeply unfortunate, however, that these major positive steps towards a better, healthier environment are being made against the backdrop of legislative changes that threaten to engulf our communities in endless construction.

While we wholeheartedly support the establishment of new national parks at White Rocks and Manoel Island, these should not be, and will not be, accepted as a fig leaf for the destruction of our streets, towns and villages. Parks are no replacement for a healthy environment in the places we live.

Moviment Graffitti thereby reiterates its call, shared by over 70 other groups and thousands of people, to withdraw Bills 143 and 144 and the three legal notices. At the same time, we enthusiastically welcome the decision to make White Rocks, along with Manoel Island, a place for us.

Photo credits to Moviment Graffitti on FaceBook