With an investment of almost one million euro, work has begun on a space in Ħal Għaxaq that will be transformed
into an area for picnics and recreation. This was announced by the Minister for the Environment, Miriam Dalli,
and the Minister for European Funds, Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, during a site visit together with the Project Green
team, the Mayor of Ħal Għaxaq Karl Boxall, and other members of the Local Council.

The works being carried out by Project Green aim to ensure that this site offers a better experience for the public.
Minister Miriam Dalli said, “We are creating another new space of 25,000 square metres where our families can
come and enjoy themselves together in a natural environment. Our idea is to preserve the natural character while
also creating facilities so that families can spend time here, because in every project we make sure to include
different aspects so that we have as diverse a portfolio of projects as possible across the whole country.”

Minister Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi stated that this project continues to demonstrate how European funds are being
invested strategically to create quality open spaces that are accessible to everyone. “Thanks to Project Green, this
intervention in Ħal Għaxaq, with an investment of around €1 million, will continue to enhance the natural
environment of this area while increasing accessibility for all. This is one of many other projects in various
localities, with an investment of more than €14 million in green and open spaces that improve quality of life,”
said the Minister.

The project includes land levelling and the creation of walking and cycling paths, as well as the construction of
rubble walls, fencing, and gates where necessary to make the site safer. More than one hundred new trees will be
planted, and other structures will be built, including sanitary facilities and an underground reservoir for the
collection of rainwater to be used for irrigating this open space. Additional works include the installation of
benches and picnic tables, including accessible ones and those for children, bicycle stands, nature-based play
elements, informative signage, solar-powered lighting, and a CCTV system.

Chiara Darmanin, Project Manager at Project Green, added that the works are being carried out with care to
ensure the safe and sustainable use of the site, as well as the protection of existing trees and third-party property
throughout the entire duration of the project.