The Malta Sociological Association said that it notes the introduction of funding for local councils to make their streets less car-centric and more people-friendly.
However, The MSA appealed to Infrastructure Malta “not to rush this process, and to be guided by evidence-based policymaking.”
The Sociologists argued that “giving Local Councils a mere six weeks to apply for funds from the Vjal Kulhadd (Everyone’s Boulevard) initiative can possibly have unintended consequences due to lack of time, preparation, and studies in the drafting of proposals.”
“For example, the sociological study of social impacts should be mainstreamed in such proposals so as to help ensure continuous community and stakeholder involvement, which are essential components of Social Impact Assessments, and that pavements, roads, and infrastructure are as inclusive, equitable, and sustainable as possible,” the MSA said.
The Malta Sociological Association therefore appealed for “a more thorough application process for this otherwise positive policy proposal.”