The government is planning a revitalisation of CVottonera to make it better than what it is today, executive coordinator of the Cottonera Rehabilitation Committee Glenn Bedingfield said.
Speaking at the Maritime Museum in Vittoriosa, Bedingfield said that the strategy plan focused on rehabilitation of the area and to give the residents what they would like to see.
“We had over 200 proposals submissions during the consultation period, which after we gone through all of these proposals and arranged the strategy, the final document was approved by Cabinet.” He said that central to the consultation were the Local Councils, a number of NGOs and Catholic Church representatives.
The document (found here), which is available online on the Ministry for Justice, Culture and Local Government highlights on three main points; improving the social capital, upgrading the urban environment and increasing business attractiveness. “We wish to improve the quality of life of the people of Cottonera, whilst keeping the true identity of the area.”
Plan to restore Fort Ricasoli after long period of neglect
Bedingfield highlighted a number of projects from the strategy plan, some of which have already began, such as the restoration of a number of fortifications around Cottonera. He also mentioned that the plan will also be the plan of restoration of landmark sites such as Fort Ricasoli, a historical site which has been left neglected. “It is time we restore Fort Ricasoli properly, to bring back its glorification and importance.”
He said that there will be further studies on improving and managing public transport in the area; improving ferry services from Valletta to Senglea and even the idea of finding space for car parks.
“We will also be focusing more on open spaces in the area; many people noted that they wish for more open areas and we have plans for a new garden is well; and we will continue to collaborate and share ideas with environmental NGO’s.” He also mentioned proposals for more sport facilities and recreational spaces.
When asked whether the strategy plan has a timeline and deadline; Bedingfield said that as of yet there is no set deadline as each strategy and plan have different timeframes.
“Not a plan of gentrification- but a plan to improve tomorrow’s Cottonera”: Owen Bonnici
We are making it very clear that this is not a plan of gentrification of Cottonera but that this to improve the beauty and culture of Cottonera’s society, said Minister for Justice, Culture and Local Government Owen Bonnici. “We have numerous measures focusing on management, open spaces, environment, transport and restoration of local heritage sites such as Fort Ricasoli and Isla fortifications.”
He said that such a strategy is crucial and is the beginning of a massive project to benefit the residents and Maltese; just as the strategy plan of Valletta was crucial. “It is a heavily detailed document with proposals to improve the quality of life for these residents and is a key point of where we currently see Cottonera and where we wish to see it in the future.”