Works have begun on a new park, Mithna Park, between Mqabba and Qrendi, the Ministries for Environment and European Funds stated.
The ministries said that the family park is being established on a stretch of land larger than that of a football ground, adding that the area, previously a quarry, will be transformed into a green open space for the community.
They said that the project is located in Triq l-Imqabba and is being undertaken by Project Green in consultation with the Local Councils of Mqabba and Qrendi. The project, the ministries said, is being done with an investment of €2 million and is supported by the European Regional Development Fund. It is being done in an area covering approximately 7,400 square metres.
Project Green Chief Operations Officer Beverley Costa said that, with the installation of green roof canopies, rainwater will be collated and reused for the irrigation of the park. The ministries added that the park will also include a reservoir, an amphitheatre, and a ping pong table, as well as having 100 trees and around 500 shrubs planted.
Minister Miriam Dalli said that for many years, residents in the area have known the site where the park will be established as "the quarry area". She commented that through this project, the government will be introducing a "beautiful open space for the residents of these localities".
Minister Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi said that this project clearly shows how EU funds are being allocated efficiently for more green spaces in communities. He said that through the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development, the government is investing in various sites around Malta to strengthen the natural environment and improve people's access to quality green spaces.
The Project Manager, Andrea Saliba, said that Project Green believes in and understands the contribution that the environment makes, as well as how nature serves as a source of peace for all. He stated that one of the aims of the agency is to provide open and safe spaces where the public can spend time in quiet or to relax.