On Monday, Prime Minister Robert Abela announced that a deal has been found for Manoel Island and Fort Tigne to be returned into the hands of the government.

The deal follows months of negotiations between the government and MIDI.

Looking ahead to the future of these sites, the government had already announced plans to turn Manoel Island into the country's largest national park. The site also features the historical Fort Manoel, as well as the Lazaretto.

Prime Minister Abela said that both Manoel Island as well as Fort Tigne would join other planned green open spaces at White Rocks in Bahar ic-Caghaq, Fort Campbell in Mellieha, and Fort San Salvatore in Cottonera, adding that consultation through the 'Shape Your Space' campaign had already begun.

The idea of consulting with the public to decide how these sites would be used is positive, as this way one can really have their finger on the pulse of what the community is feeling.

The historical buildings should be restored should restoration be required, and be used in some way that is respectful to their character. Any changes or modifications must not change the character or look of the site.

The Chamber of Architects and Civil Engineers also made a good point a week or so ago.

It said that the new national parks should be identity driven. For example, it says that Fort Campbell's remote coastal setting and unique military fabric lend themselves to a landscape led, contemplative park rooted in ecology, memory, and heritage conservation. The site requires sensitive intervention, extensive restoration, and careful phasing due to its fragile condition, it said. Its identity should privilege nature, tranquillity, and minimal built intervention, it added.

Having the identity of a site determine what will be done with it is something worth considering.

Fort Campbell could, for instance, be restored and left completely open for the public to explore, the same could be said for Fort Manoel, both offering a unique experience for visitors given the open areas they are surrounded by. Of course there should also be some form of rangers who care for the sites and ensure safety and that no vandalism takes place. Perhaps there could also be tour guides who provide educational walkthroughs, also adding educational value to the sites.

Some other historical sites, like Fort San Salvatore, could be turned into a museum showcasing the history of the site, and even perhaps be used to showcase life in Malta during that period.

The options for public benefit and use are endless.

Bringing all these sites back for the public and initiating talks on how to use them is good. One hopes that any plans that move forward respect the contexts of the sites in question and that we do not end up seeing an overcommercialisation in terms of kiosks or private facilities.