The Marsascala local council has welcomed the news that the Zonqor point land that was earmarked for the American University of Malta will be given back to the people.

A stretch of undeveloped land at Żonqor Point which was handed over to the American University of Malta as part of a deal will be returned to the government, Prime Minister Robert Abela said on Monday. He said that the government and AUM have come to an agreement which will be brought before the Cabinet for approval.

In a statement, the council said that while it "always understood the need for the country to attract investment and create jobs, the announced decision by the Prime Minister was also taken in light of the new environmental priorities for the country. Together with the Inwadar project that is taking place in the same zone, and with what was announced in the budget will be more than planned, the zone will be given new life with the planting of a large number of trees."

The Marsascala council asked the government to invest in the former National Swimming Pool in Zonqor, and that the title be given back to the Marsascala Aquatic. "This would be changed and developed into a modern complex so that the Marsascala Aquatic can continue training the aquatic sport in the locality."

Back when the AUM proposal was originally made, the council had been split on the Zonqor point development back in 2015, with the majority being in favour of the development. In May 2015, The Marsascala Council voted 5 - 4 in favour of the project, with the PN councillors and one PL councillor voting against.