Manoel Island And White Rocks To Be Transformed Into National Parks Following Public Consultation

Prime Minister Robert Abela has announced that the open spaces at Manoel Island and White Rocks will be turned into two new national parks roughly the size of Valletta.

A public consultation process will be launched in the coming weeks, inviting ideas from children, NGOs, experts, and the public on how the areas should be developed into green, open spaces for everyone to enjoy.

Speaking during a discussion on Budget 2026, Abela said both projects will move forward together. A technical exercise is underway to end the Manoel Island concession, while talks are ongoing with the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage to preserve the historic buildings at White Rocks.

“These parks will be created according to the wishes of our children and future generations,” Abela said, adding that the projects mark a shift in priorities from the past, when both sites were earmarked for commercial development.

The projects form part of the government’s Malta Vision 2050 strategy, which focuses on improving quality of life, well-being, and sustainability.

A similar public consultation will also take place for the regeneration of the Grand Harbour, allowing people to share their ideas on how the area should evolve in the years ahead.

Abela said such projects not only improve local communities but also enhance Malta’s tourism product, helping to attract visitors looking for quality experiences.

What would you like to see included in Malta’s next national parks?