This month we held another community assembly in Marsascala as part of our Save Our Shores (SOS) Project. The aim of these assemblies is to bring residents together to discuss issues of common concern – especially in relation to the sea – and propose common solutions.

The Marsascala community assembly was one of our most popular community assemblies to date and residents spoke passionately about issues directly affecting their locality. These included rampant construction and the increasing commercialisation of the sea front, noise and light pollution, as well as various attempts to develop the bay.

On this last issue, residents shared how this was the only bay in the south of Malta which is still relatively quiet and that it is a bay enjoyed by residents from neighbouring localities, not just Marsascala. The bay has been subject to various attempts to develop it – from a water polo pitch, then a marina and now a ferry. They questioned why this specific site was chosen and why the Government did not consult with them and expressed fears of further commercialisation of the locality. While FoEM generally supports improved public transport links – including ferries – such proposals should always aim to consult and take residents’ concerns on board, while ensuring that any infrastructure is appropriately sited and that it caters for residents first and foremost.

This is the fourth community assembly we have organised as part of the SOS Project and common themes and concerns are now emerging – from the commercialisation and the takeover of public spaces by private entities, to pollution and a lack of monitoring, to unreceptive authorities and the prioritisation of private interests over the public good.

Join us for the next community assembly in the Cottonera area on 12th November at the Birgu Regatta Club!

The SOS Project is supported by the Minor Foundation for Major Challenges.