Singer William Mangion has told The Malta Independent that he has found a suitable area for a studio and rehearsal complex which will be a “massive project”.

He also told this newspaper that the area in question is on government-owned land and is a short distance from a garage complex already being used by musicians for rehearsals. It is close to the Malta Resources Authority offices in Marsa and is the government’s garage.

This newsroom contacted Mr Mangion to ask him if he had come across any other potential rehearsal spaces for bands during the last 22 months. Mr Mangion replied that he had found other premises but they were not suitable for our youths, since they were far away from bus stops. He said that these premises were mainly in the south. He did not specify further when pressed to say where exactly these premises he came across are located.

Mr Mangion said: “I wanted to seek a place in a central area, which would be in close proximity to bus stops, since most youngsters use buses to commute.

Mr Mangion hit out at what he referred to as a “misinformation campaign”, referring to the mention of the word garage.

He said: “What irritates me most is this garage business. This is not about a garage but much more than that. It is about various units which would be transformed into studios. It is a massive project. Time will prove wrong those who stated that this project is only about a garage.”

“They can say whatever they want about me, but a misinformation campaign is unfair on our musicians, who keep asking me what the issue of the garage is all about,” he complained.

Mr Mangion said the idea of this project came about because many bands were finding it difficult to practice in inhabited areas and the government wanted to make it easier for these youths,” he said.

When asked by this newsroom how much he estimates the “massive project” will cost, he referred this newsroom to the minister.

“It is the minister who can answer these questions; all I am is a government service provider,” he continued.

He said that a news conference will be held today (Saturday) to announce the launch of the project.

Earlier this week, Justice and Culture Minister Owen Bonnici announced that a piece of land had been identified to host musicians seeking rehearsal space. The land will also host a carnival village.

Mangion wants to continue to help in activities related to culture

Now that Mr Mangion has achieved his goal, he said he hopes that he will continue to serve the culture sector.

Asked by this newsroom if his contract would be terminated, he said: “I give a helping hand in anything cultural, be it activities tied to Notte Bianca or carnival, so I hope that my contract does not end here,” he said, adding that he has a lot to offer the culture sector.