Momentum has held a number of public consultations – during which Vision Circle, citizens and environmental experts discussed the current state of Malta’s open spaces. The Party said that many expressed concern that Malta is losing its natural and cultural heritage, stripping communities of vital spaces for recreation, health, and identity.

Momentum warned that open spaces remain under constant threat from “legal loopholes and weak enforcement. For example, ODZ areas are far from safe, with proposed laws set to legalise all illegal developments carried out up until last year.”

The Party said that participants in the discussion put forward a series of practical proposals, including:

A moratorium on high rises, and new buildings in ODZ areas

A revision of local plans to prioritise the environment.

A clear public land registry with mapped and signposted country pathways.

Stricter planning, enforcement, and protection of public land from private interests.

Strengthening the Environmental Protection Unit across Malta and Gozo, with more personnel and equipment such as drones and cameras, operating 24/7.

Immediate removal of illegal encroachments on public land and piazzas.

Reform of planning and environmental institutions to ensure transparency and accountability.

Ending the practice of turning agricultural land into solar farms.

Installing adequate lighting that limits light pollution so our natural open spaces can be enjoyed at night.

Promoting vertical farming to reduce pesticide use and conserve water, offering an innovative solution to food production challenges.

Katya Compagno said, “Momentum is committed to going beyond vague promises. Open spaces are not luxuries but essential to Malta’s future. They are where children play, where elderly people rest, where nature finds refuge, and where our fond memories reside. If we want a Malta worth passing on, we must act now.”

Momentum concluded by saying that it will continue working with NGOs, farmers, and communities to defend Malta’s common good and ensure that open spaces remain for future generations.

Permalink: Proposals put forward to protect Malta’s open spaces – Momentum