Misraħ il-Karmelitani Garden in Żurrieq, an open space of around 1,150m² on a site that was previously covered in tarmac, was inaugurated by the Minister for the Environment, Energy and Public Cleanliness Miriam Dalli, together with the Project Green team and Żurrieq Mayor Rita Grima. The garden has transformed a tarmacked area into an accessible open space in a residential area.

As part of the project, a reservoir was excavated to collect rainwater from the road, which will be used to irrigate the indigenous trees and shrubs planted in the garden. Solar lighting was also installed, together with benches and other amenities, creating a recreational space for the Żurrieq community.

A Maltese luzzu belonging to the late Gianni “il-Lixxu” Tonna was also installed on site. The boat was restored and donated to the Local Council in his memory. It was placed in the garden through an initiative coordinated by the Mayor together with Joseph Farrugia “it-Timba”, who assisted with its transport and preparation.

A total of 40 mature trees and 1,620 shrubs were planted in Misraħ il-Karmelitani Garden.

Minister Miriam Dalli stated, “Another project has been completed. Project after project, we are continuing to bring more open and accessible spaces to our communities. Misraħ il-Karmelitani Garden is a clear example of how an area that was previously covered in tarmac has been transformed into an environmental, safe and recreational space for families, residents and children in Żurrieq. Spaces like these make a difference in people’s daily lives, as they create places where people can meet, rest and spend quality time outdoors.”

“This project also shows how the urban environment can be designed in a more sustainable way. Through the rainwater collection reservoir, the solar lighting system, and the planting of indigenous trees and shrubs, we are investing in green infrastructure that serves people today while helping our communities become more resilient to environmental challenges. As Government, together with Project Green and local councils, we will continue working so that more localities have quality open spaces close to their homes,” said Minister Dalli.

Project architect Daniel Tabone explained that the garden also includes an area that can host yoga sessions. “In every project we work on as an agency, we always ensure that open spaces have different uses, going beyond simply being open areas. Here at Misraħ il-Karmelitani Garden, we specifically created a space for yoga sessions or other forms of exercise. In this way, we are giving the public the opportunity to exercise and lead a healthier life,” said Perit Tabone.

Members of the Żurrieq Local Council and relatives of Gianni Tonna were also present for the inauguration.

Misraħ il-Karmelitani Garden is among 16 projects announced by Project Green through the Community Greening Grant scheme.