More than 30 tonnes of bulky waste have been collected by Project Green from four different developable sites that will be turned into open spaces for the public, a government statement read.

The material that was collected varies from construction waste to plastic waste "and furniture - waste that could have easily been taken to Civic Amenity Sites or disposed of through the services offered by local councils."

Minister for the Environment, Energy and Regeneration of the Grand Harbour Miriam Dalli met Project Green workers who were completing the cleaning of these sites in Lija, Luqa, Ta' Ġiorni (St Julian's) and Kirkop, in preparation for them to be transformed into public spaces. "Through this investment, Project Green will regenerate 8,000 square metres of land that was previously earmarked for development."

During her visit, Minister Miriam Dalli expressed her gratitude to the workers for their efforts in swiftly preparing these sites. Chief Operations Officer, Perit Beverley Costa, explained the Agency's process for creating the site proposals, which will be submitted to the Planning Authority. The designs will also be presented to the respective local councils.

"These sites will provide outdoor green areas within a short distance from the homes of approximately 7,000 families. While the local plan permits the development of around 30 apartment blocks on these sites, we will use them to create green open spaces for the community, with trees and other indigenous plants. I look forward to the completion of these four new open spaces, as well as other new green spaces that Project Green is working on," said Minister Miriam Dalli.

"The involvement of the local councils and understanding the needs of the public are paramount in our efforts," emphasised Beverly Costa, COO of Project Green. "We are committed to transforming these sites into public spaces that cater to the community's ambitions and improve their quality of life."