Watch: Abela – Manoel Island Should Be A Template For High-Quality Development
Prime Minister Robert Abela said the proposed Manoel Island project should serve as a “template” for how development should be carried out in Malta.
Interviewed on ONE, Abela reiterated his pledge not to scrap the government’s longstanding contract with MIDI, pointing out that the project has attracted 5,000 local bondholders.
“These 5,000 people are concerned, and it is my job to hear everyone out and ensure the project is the best for all.”
“The truth is that 60% of the project is dedicated to green, open public spaces and a further 20% is dedicated to historic sites which the developers are obliged to restore at an estimated cost of €150 million.”
He said that the final project must also respect the agreements reached by former Gżira mayor Conrad Borg Manche, such as that the foreshore must be open to the public.
However, he said it would be “dishonest” of him to pledge to scrap the contract and pay MIDI a compensation fee.
“I believe that many of the 29,000 people who signed a petition to turn Manoel Island into a public park have genuine concerned, and I’m also convinced that the project can lead to quality development.”
“This isn’t going to be a project for developers to earn a quick buck but a top-quality development that can attract quality tourists and strike a balance.”
“It must be a template for how we want development in the coming years. We won’t say no to development, but we will say yes to quality, sustainable development and this project must respect these principles.”
“Rather than pit the 29,000 petition signers against the 5,000 bondholders, I will try to bring everyone on board and reach an agreement. I won’t scrap the contract, but it won’t be development at all costs either. Maybe the final solution won’t please everyone but I believe that many people can converge.”
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