The Malta Independent 30 July 2026, Thursday
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New public square in Attard gives priority to people over vehicles

Thursday, 30 July 2026, 16:50 Last update: about 1 hour ago

Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Employment Jonathan Attard has officially inaugurated Tommaso Dingli Square.

The project, delivered by Infrastructure Malta, forms part of the Vjal Kulħadd initiative, which continues to prioritise people through investment in more accessible, greener and more sustainable public spaces.

Addressing the inauguration, the Minister said that the project reflects the Government's vision of placing communities, the environment and quality of life at the heart of every infrastructure investment.

"When we invest in infrastructure, we are not simply building roads, pavements or public spaces. We are building stronger, more united and more resilient communities. These investments improve people's daily lives while leaving a positive legacy for future generations," the Minister said.

 Attard explained that Tommaso Dingli Square is one of a series of projects being implemented under the Vjal Kulħadd scheme, which is transforming urban spaces by giving priority to people rather than vehicles.

In this context, he also referred to the recent inauguration of a new public square in Msida and the launch of a new project near Junior College, where a road which few days ago used to be open to traffic will be transformed into a pedestrian and recreational area.

The Attard project includes approximately 1,500 square metres of public green space featuring 50 newly planted trees. These will provide additional natural shade, improve air quality, reduce the urban heat island effect and further enhance biodiversity in the heart of the locality.

Among the project's innovative features is a rainwater harvesting and storage system, with an underground reservoir that will allow collected rainwater to be reused for irrigation and for cleaning the square. The Minister said this is a practical example of the Government's commitment to the sustainable use of resources.

The Minister thanked the Mayor and the Attard Local Council, the Chief Executive Officer and the team at Infrastructure Malta, as well as the architects, engineers, contractors and workers who contributed to the successful delivery of the project. He also thanked residents for their patience and cooperation throughout the construction works.

"As a government, we will continue investing in projects that make a tangible difference in people's lives and help create more sustainable, inclusive and high-quality communities. I am confident that Tommaso Dingli Square will become the social heart of Attard - a place where the community can come together, strengthen relationships and create new memories," the Minister added.

Infrastructure Malta Chief Executive Officer Steve Ellul said that this square is more than an infrastructure project, "it is a new public space designed to serve as a meeting place for the community.

"Through the Vjal Kulħadd programme, we are changing the way we view public spaces by creating safer, more attractive and more accessible environments where people can meet and enjoy their locality. For us, modern infrastructure means a better quality of life and direct investment in our communities. We will continue delivering projects that return public space to people while further improving the quality of life across our localities," Ellul said.

 Attard Mayor Stefan Cordina said that the project was launched by Infrastructure Malta after the Local Council had applied under the scheme. He expressed his satisfaction that the locality had been given this opportunity.

The inauguration was followed by a family-friendly evening featuring live music, interactive games, arts and crafts activities, and other entertainment.

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