The government's plan to restore Fort Campbell and turn it into an open space for families is welcome news.

Prime Minister Robert Abela made the announcement on Sunday.

The Fort was constructed by the British in the 1930s, before the start of World War 2. It stands down the road from Selmun Palace, and is a very interesting site in its own right. It has some spectacular views of the island, and is located in an area popular among those who enjoy walking in Malta's countryside.

It will make a fantastic place for families to visit. There is no doubt in anyone's mind that creating spaces where families can enjoy spending time in the countryside is welcome by the public.

The site has been in a state of disrepair for years, and as is, is dangerous for people to walk around, and thus it cannot be enjoyed. From dilapidated buildings, to rubble, and literal holes in the ground to an underground bunker, in its current dangerous state people must steer clear.

But if restored, it would truly make a fantastic area for families to enjoy picnics and explore. It also represents a part of our history, and could be a showcase of British defences during that period on the island.

The news of the government's plan came soon after it had identified another two sites that will be turned into national parks, White Rocks and Manoel Island.

But the announcements come at a time when other plans proposed by the government raise much concern. We are referring to the planning reforms. One cannot speak about being pro environment on one hand, and then put forward such controversial reforms.

The Malta Independent on Sunday just last week also spoke of this issue:  "a government genuinely committed to environmental protection does not push bills that experts warn will have 'devastating consequences'. It does not introduce reforms that weaken community input, empower large developers, and undermine long-term planning in favour of short-term gain. It does not gamble with what remains of Malta's land."

Prime Minister Abela also addressed the reforms in an interview published by the Times of Malta on Sunday. Abela said that the Cabinet Sub-Committee is still analysing the reactions that it received, and he mentioned seeking wide convergence on the reforms.

One hopes this means that the end result would be that the many, serious concerns highlighted by the environmentalists about the original proposals would be addressed.

The government must fix those devastating issues before moving ahead with the proposed planning reforms. The activists were absolutely right to protest against the original drafts, which would have had damaging effects. Their warnings must be heeded.