The project will be carried out in two phases, focusing on different aspects, allowing both phases to proceed simultaneously. The agency informed TVMnews that during the renovation, the garden will remain accessible to the public, with plans designed to maintain the highest standards throughout the transformation.

For many, St. Anthony Gardens hold fond memories of school trips, once a staple of childhood. Today, the gardens continue to welcome families, solo visitors, and tourists seeking tranquility in the heart of the urban landscape.

Project Green has taken on the task of restoring the public section of these gardens, which span 40,000 square meters, following widespread calls for much-needed upgrades. The Planning Authority has approved two separate applications, reflecting the distinct nature of the interventions required.

Benjamin Vassallo, Head of Design at Project Green, explained that the first permit covers the restoration of pathways, interior garden walls, and stone structures such as fountains. The second permit, approved last month, focuses on the conservatory and bird cages.

Architect Vassallo confirmed that the project will be executed in two phases, aligning with the scope of each permit, ensuring a comprehensive and well-structured transformation of this cherished public space.

“”There will be two phases because one focuses primarily on civil and restoration work on stone structures, while the other involves more iron-related work,” explained Architect Vassallo.

Benjamin Vassallo, Head of Design at Project Green, confirmed that work on both phases could proceed simultaneously. The agency is currently evaluating 14 bids for the stonework contract, which is expected to take approximately one year and eight months. Notably, the restoration will include two kilometers of walkways within the gardens.

In the second phase, one of the seven bird cages—the original structure with a finial on top—will be preserved and restored. The remaining six cages will be reconstructed using galvanized iron. Meanwhile, part of the conservatory, where plants are cultivated, will be rebuilt in a style that harmonizes with the existing structure. Both the cages and the conservatory will continue to serve their intended purposes.

When asked by TVMnews whether this extensive project would require the gardens to close temporarily, Architect Vassallo provided insight into the planned approach to minimize disruption for visitors.

“We have also included conditions in the tender to ensure that the public can continue to access the gardens safely throughout the project,” explained Architect Vassallo. “Adequate hoarding will be in place, and the work will be carried out in sections. As each restored area is completed, it will be reopened to the public, while another section is closed for restoration.”

Architect Benjamin Vassallo emphasized that, just as Project Green maintained close collaboration with regulatory bodies during the permitting process, it will continue to work closely with entities such as the Environment and Resources Authority and the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage throughout the restoration. This ensures that all interventions respect the gardens’ historical, architectural, and botanical significance, as well as the existing flora and fauna.

Estimates from Project Green indicate that the maintenance and restoration of the public gardens at Sant’Anton will exceed €5 million.