1 - Fort ST Elmo& Marsamxetto Rep Part3

Photo53:AerialviewofOldLaboratoryBarracksandsurroundings
OldLaboratory Barracks
DowlingArea In front of the Old Laboratory Barracks, situated along the shoreline, one finds a government owned structure leased to a private individual under tenement T.76804 (rooms). Beyond this structure, the pathway along the shoreline comes to an abrupt end, providing no further foot path access along the Marsamxetto waterfront. In fact, part of the retaining wall plummets directly into the sea whilst the remaining part, where some foreshore exists, is inaccessible and dangeroustowalkon(videphotos54&55). Again reference here must be made to Structure Plan Policies RCO10 and RCO11 which identify the foreshore between the Old Laboratory Barracks and Dowling Area as an area having ecological and/or scientific importance (refer to Annex II GHLP Figure 7: Valletta Inset Map).
MIMCOL:FORTST.ELMOANDMARSAMXETTOHARBOURREPORT
60
Photo54:Endofwalkway

Endofwalkway
RetainingWallplummetsdirectlyintothesea
Burrowedwithintheretainingwallonefindsatunnelwhichisthoughttodatebacktothetime oftheBritish(videphoto55).Infact,thetunnel,whichisapproximatelytwentyeight(28)metres deep and eight (8) meters wide, is thought to be one of the proposed submarine base pens drawn up by the British, which project however was never completed (refer to figure 2 on page 62).
A short distance away from the proposed location for the submarine base pens, further along part of the shoreline known as the Dowling Area, lies a government owned property, previouslyreferredtoasHerMajestysDockyardproperty.Today,thispropertyisleasedtoa private individual under lease agreement T.66287 for use as a house. The only access to this propertyisfromGreatSiegeroadbymeansoftwowaydescendingstairs;one(1)sideofwhich leadstothispropertywhiletheotherleadstotheadjacentSt.RoccoBaths(videphoto56).
61
Photo55:A28mtunnelwithinDowlingArea
Figure2:PlansofsubmarinebasepenssourcedfromSantuSpirtuArchives
62
Photo56:St.RoccoBaths These bathsform part of anarea that for a long time has been earmarkedfor development into beachfacilities,whichprojectwouldnotonlyembellishtheforeshoreandsurroundingareasof the hotels in the vicinity, but also ensure an uninterrupted shoreline for the enjoyment of the public.However,todate,thisprojecthasnotyetmaterialised. ExcelsiorArea Adjacent to the St. Rocco Baths, one comes across a considerable area of land which, according to the GHLP, lies in a zone which should retain its existing or more environmentally friendly use. This area of land has been granted on Temporary Emphyteusis (T.65015 expiring in 2116) totheGrandHotelExcelsiorLtd(videphoto57).
63
Photo57:ForeshoreoftheGrandHotelExcelsior By virtue of this deed, the Commissioner of Land had given his consent to the grantee to reclaim the sea area bounded on the north and west by the sea and east by the same property being granted. In turn, the emphyteuta had bound itself to commission the Governments consultants on the Msida Marina, namely Coode Blizard Ltd, to check the shape of the proposed reclamation by reinstating the Msida Marina Model and affecting the required computerruns,bindingitselftoconformtoanymodificationsandprofileofretainingworksas advisedbysaidconsultants. By virtue of a later addendum to the original deed, the site (formerly occupied by the seabed and now reclaimed) was granted to the Grand Hotel Excelsior to be used exclusively as a yachtingcentreandotherancillaryhotelfacilities.Inaddition,thedeedstipulatesthattheland grantedshallformanintegralpartoftheamenitiesofthehotel.
64
In theory, the pathway along the coastal zone of the Marsamxetto Waterfront, which abruptly stops in the vicinity of the Old Laboratory Barracks (as depicted in photo 54 on page 61), resumes again from this point onwards, albeit from behind the structures, and continues all the way up to Pieta Creek. In practice, however, the pathway stops at the AFM gates situated just a few metresaway(videphoto58).
Photo58:Obstaclesinwayofwalkway
AFMNavalBase Walkwaycontinues fromthispoint Gateto restrictedzone
The whole area in between, that is, between the Excelsior and the AFM gates, falls within a zone which, according to the GHLP, has been earmarked for Maritime Related Uses Use Class10(UseClassesOrder,1994asamended)(refertoAnnexIIIGHLPFigure10:FlorianaInset Map). Ascanbeexpected,therefore,theshorelineissufficientlyequippedwithanumberofslipways used to haul boats in and out of the sea. The topography of the site, that is, the scale and
65
informal arrangement of the buildings, allows views of the water to be obtained from the central space. Any redevelopment in this area should retain and enhance such an attractive feature.Adescriptionofsaidareafollows. Situated beneath the Excelsior bastions walls one finds a number of boathouses occupied by a private individual by way of encroachment (T.90477; T.92862). Opposite these boathouses, further along the shoreline from the Excelsior, one finds a small structure currently leased to the same tenant for use as a house (T.61393). Adjacent to this house, lies the Lo Squero restaurant, which building is currently leased to Haywharf Caterers Ltd. under tenement T.61840(shop/kiosk)(videphoto59).
Moving further along the shoreline, in the direction of Pieta Creek, one comes across a large area consisting of a number of structures which all used to form part of the Nautical School. This area is currently leased to the Viking Sailing Club under tenement T.79286. Within this same area, there are also offices currently occupied by the Education Department under tenementT.73873(videphoto59). MovingfurtherinlandbeyondtheformerpremisesoftheNauticalSchool,lyinginthemidstof the aforementioned boathouses, one finds a flight of steps, which link Xatt itTiben with Sir Hannibal Scicluna road. These steps intercept through a small sloping rural area situated beneath the Excelsior Bastion wall. The rural area currently accommodates several mature trees. Across the road from this small rural area, precisely on the other side of Sir Hannibal Scicluna road,onefindsanothermuch largerruralareawhichisreferredtobythelandsDepartmentas a Gardening Site. This area is covered by tenement T.52302 but is currently vacant. Lying
66
immediately next to it, further up Sir Hannibal Scicluna road, situated immediately opposite the entrance to the Excelsior Hotel lies a mediumsized open space currently utilised as a hotel carpark. In fact this tract of land, which has recently been embellished, is included in the area grantedtotheExcelsiorHotelunderTemporaryEmphyteusisT.65015whichexpiresin2116.
Photo59:AerialviewofexNauticalSchool
National Library
LoSquero
ExNautical SchoolPremises
AFM Naval Base
PublicOfficeEnclave Movingfurtherinland,beyondtheExcelsiorcarpark,abovetheBastionwalls,onecomestoan area referred to in the GHLP as the Public Office Enclave. This area was previously known as Belt isSebh, an area situated outside the 16th century fortified City of Valletta, but within its extended 17th century fortification system which includes also Floriana. This site, which has a prominent position overlooking Marsamxetto Harbour, is already established as a location for publicofficeusebutitlackscertainprovisionsthatwouldmakeitideal.
67
In fact, Area Policy GF16 of the GHLP recognises the need for the area to be improved and upgraded and calls for a Development Brief for the area tobe drawn up. Unfortunately, to this date,suchaDevelopmentBriefhasnotyetbeenissued.ToquotefromthePolicy:
This brief will be expected to give particular consideration to transportation and to visual aspects. The eventual scheme will be subject to a Traffic Impact Statement (TIS). The development brief will be approved by the Planning Authority and will also include the followingrequirements:
(i) office accommodation for government departments interfacing with the public, together withotherpublicsectorofficesasnecessary;
(ii)safeguardingoftheexistingcemetery;
(iii)makeproposalsregardingthePublicLibrary;
(iv)inclusionofpublicwalkwayswithadequatelinkagestoVallettaandFloriana;
(v)restorationofthebastionsandprovisionfortheproposedHeritageTrail;
(vi)alandscapingandplantingscheme;
(vii)enhancementinamenity,andimprovementofpublicopenspace;and
(viii)onsiteparkinginaccordancewithadoptedstandards.
The Enclave can be brokendown in smaller sites according to their current use and relative delimitationsexistingbetweenthem,namely: SiteA:LibraryTerrace Thissiteisalineareast/westplateau,relativelyundeveloped,borderedatsouthbytheFloriana Retrenchment curtain wall which provides an impressive backdrop to the site when viewed fromtheHarbourarea. Beneath the curtain wall there is a deep ditch which allows access to the site from each end, provides car parking facilities (T.79659 Education Department) and contains several storage buildings(videphoto60).
68
Photo60:AerialviewofLibraryTerrace Attheeasternend,theaccessroadfromGreatSiegeroadslopessteeply,whileasecondaccess, from the Lintorn Barracks area, is provided at the western end, through the original Polverista Gate (Bieb Pulverista) located within the Bastion walls. These two access points provide a continuousvehicularroutefromtheLibraryTerracetotheupperneighbouringareas,occupied by Government Ministries and Departments (Education: G09105; Housing; Works Division; InlandRevenue;PublicLotto:G.36001/2)andthePoliceHeadquarters(videphoto61). Infrontoftheditchonecanfindaraisedmound,excavatedtoprovideanouterlineofdefence. Currently accommodating mature trees, the mound forms a strong landscape feature against theBastionwalls,whenviewedfromthenorth.
69
Infrontofthemound,situatedonelevelabovetheExcelsiorcarpark,acrossJosephJ.Mangion road, one finds the buildings that currently house the National Public Library, occupied under Government Lease G.21005 by the Public Library Department. The Library premises comprise a two storey linear building, excavated and constructed into the mound, and a new two storey extension sitting in front of the mound. Although the library enjoys open and unrestricted views of the Marsamxetto Harbour, the buildings, especially the prominent new extension, do notfullyexploittheirpositionatthebaseoftheBastionwalls(videphoto61). At the extreme western end of the site, within a walled garden, one can find an attractive two storey former military residence better known as the Aertex Villa (vide photo 61). This building is currently occupied by the Inland Revenue Department under Government Lease G.17007. Developed in a British Colonial style, the building and the associated garden have an architecturalandtownscapevaluewhichshouldbepreservedandenhanced. Immediately to the north of the Aertex Villa, located within the Msida Bastion, lies a garden/cemetery of significant architectural, historic and landscape merit, as it contains a number of ancient tombstones and mature tree species. Buried within this site, one mainly finds British servicemen, officials and businessmen and their families, some of whose descendentsstillliveinMaltatoday,aswellassomeMaltese. The most famous Maltese buried here was Mikiel Anton Vassalli, known as the father of the Malteselanguage,whodiedon12thofJanuary1829.LeasedtotheSuperintendenceofCultural Heritage under tenement T.51718, this garden/cemetery, formerly known as the Msida Bastion Cemetry, has been restored and today represents an attractive and interesting visitor facility managedbyDinlArtHelwa(videphoto61).
70
Photo61:AerialviewofLibraryTerracedifferentangle SiteB:OspizioArea This site occupies the intermediate plateau between the St. Salvatore Curtain, situated beneath the Police Headquarters and adjacent Public Lotto Offices (Government Lease: G.36001/2), and theouterPolveristaCurtain,overlookingMarsamxettoHarbouraboveHayWharf. Due to the level changes and building orientation, it represents a complex area with considerable potential for future enhancement, providing the opportunity to connect the LibraryTerracewiththemoreremotewesternpartsofthesite(ex.MilordaGardens)througha series of interconnecting pedestrian routes and network of passages which run through the wallsofthefortifications,inparticular,LaVittoriaBastions.
MsidaBastion Cemetery Aertex Villa Library Mound Polverista Gate
71
The site, accessed from the adjacent Library Terrace, slopes down from the St. Salvatore CurtainwalltothePolveristaCurtainandincludeswithinitsarea:
aschool,LorenzoManche,composedofsingleandtwostoreybuildings,arrangedaround courtyard and playground areas, currently leased to the Director of Education under GovernmentLeaseG.09016(refertophoto62);
alargeundevelopedopenlandincludingafewstructuressituatedatthefarwesternendof the site, within the St. Salvatore Counterguard, currently leased to the Commissioner of PoliceunderTenementT.71664.
This tract of land includes a skewed arch, within St. Salvatore Bastion, leading to the Milorda Gardens (G.01081 Dir. of Agriculture), situated one level beneath, and possibly leading also to another opening within Sa Maison Bastion at the waterfront level at Hay Wharf.Access,however,iscurrentlyclosed(videphotos63&64);
an area of land currently occupied by the Works Division (Restoration Unit) under Government Lease G.39119, including the original artillery chambers (casemates) of the Polverista Curtain, situated along the north edge, currently walled up and used as stores (videphoto62);
Overall, the site displays a number of positive characteristics which should be enhanced and developed further, encouraging, where possible, free movement of pedestrians along the Polverista Curtain through uninterrupted pedestrian paths running parallel to the Polverista artillery chambers, connecting the Library Terrace to the Milorda garden and possibly creating a link to the waterfront via the skewed arch in the curtain wall of the St. Salvatore Counterguard, thereby making the relatively cutoff garden more accessible to tourists, and localsalike,fortheirenjoyment.
72
Photo62:AerialviewofOspizioArea
St.SalvadorCurtain Occupied byPolice
School
Networkof Passages within Fortifications
Polverista Curtain Restoration Unit
Photo63:Aerialviewofskewedarch
PoliceHQ Occupied byPolice
SkewedArch
73
Photo64:Aerialviewofskewedarchdifferentangle HayWharfArea As previously mentioned, in theory, another pedestrian walkway exists along the shoreline of the Marsamxetto Harbour, linking the Excelsior area with Pieta Creek. In practice, however, access along the shoreline is restricted via a guarded entrance at the base of Msida Bastion whichpreventsthefreeandcontinuouspedestrianmovementtowardsPietaCreek.Thereason forthisrestrictedzoneisduetothepresenceoftheMaritimeSquadron oftheArmedForcesof Malta,whoseprimaryroleistodefendtheintegrityoftheMalteseIslands(videphoto65). The area currently occupied by the Squadron, by virtue of Government Lease G.42010, stretches from the gate situated adjacent to the old Nautical School, at the base of Msida Bastion, along the Polverista Curtain Wall up to another gate situated at the base of Sa Maison Bastion(videphoto65).
LaVittoria Bastions SkewedArch Milorda Gardens
74
Within this area, one finds three large single storey buildings which are similar to barracks constructed by the British Services together with some temporary structures located in the space between the buildings and the bastion walls. In addition, within the base of the curtain wall, a number of former WWII air raid shelters have been allocated for storage purposes (vide photo66). According to the GHLP, the whole area occupied by the Maritime Squadron and further along the shoreline towards the Gozo Channel berth, is a zone which should retain its existing or more environmentally friendly use (refer to Annex III GHLP Figure 10: Floriana Inset Map). In addition, this area is covered by an Area of High Landscape Value policy which aims to protecttheharbourfortificationsfromanynegativevisualimpactthatmightarisethroughany type of development in the area. Any proposals for this site, therefore, will have to respect the backdropofthefortificationsandbesimilarinsizeandmassingastheexistingstructures. Photo65:AerialviewofHayWharf
RestrictedArea occupiedbyAFM
75
Photo66:AFMBuildings PietaCreekAndSurroundingArea Moving further along Hay Wharf, in the direction of Sa Maison, one arrives at the Pieta Creek. TheCreekretainsitscharmasaninletofMarsamxettoHarbour(videphotos67&68). Were it not for the mayhem caused due to cargo activities in the vicinity, this location could well serve as the perfect setting for a nice stroll along the waterfront, providing pedestrians withtheopportunitytoabsorbtheexcellentviewsoftheVallettafortificationsintheirentirety. Asithappens,however,theareaisintotaldisarray.Eventhefewfishingboatsthatfloat sporadicallywithinthecreekfailtocreatethepropermood,sodesperatelyneededtoelatethe place.
76
Photo67:AerialviewofHayWharf
Photo68:PietaCreekandsurroundingarea
77
On leaving the location currently occupied by the Maritime Squadron of the Armed Forces of Malta, strolling along Hay Wharf in the direction of Pieta, one comes across the area currently utilisedbytheGozoChannelCompanyLtd.totransshipheavycargofromMaltatoGozoand viceversa. This area is cramped and poorly organised, as a consequence of which, traffic is often backed up on the distributor road junction and on to ixXatt talPieta, especially in peak season (vide photo 69). Needless to say, something needs to be done to ease the congestion. The questioniswhat? Some argue that this cargo terminal should not even be at this location, but would be better suited within the Grand Harbour. Others disagree and, cognisant of the difficulties encountered in finding an alternative location that can equally serve its function, if not better, supportthenotionofimprovingandrationalisingtheexistingfacilities. Photo69:ChaosatPietaCreek
78
AreaPolicyGF08oftheGHLPsupportsthelatterviewandsuggeststhe:
UpgradingoftheGozoFerryTerminalatSaMaisontoprovideimprovedfacilities,including a dedicated parking area off the main road for ferry traffic measures should be taken to improve and rationalise the existing facilities, which could include extension to the quay apron.
As for the congestion of traffic, Area Policy GF09 of the GHLP acknowledges that improvements to the road junction at Sa Maison is required, particularly in connection with any redevelopment of the Gozo Cargo Terminal. The Policy states that the existing landscaped areaatSaMaison,currentlyleasedtothePietaCouncilunderTenementT.78796,
islocated within the distributor road and servesasaroundabout.This discourages totally its use by pedestrians. The junction must be redesigned to facilitate pedestrian movement betweenthearea,thewaterfrontandthewoodedareanearby.
The Policy also provides for the safeguarding of a small slipway and an area for boat storage andmaintenance. Action seems to have already been taken in regard to the dilapidated Old Customs Verandah, better known as The Boathouse, which lies a few metres away from the Cargo Terminal (vide photo70). This building, which is partly collapsed, has played its part in Pietas folklore after having served as a boat shed for local boat owners ever since yesteryear. Devolved to the Pieta Local Council in 2005 under lease T.78949, this building will soon be converted into an upmarket restaurant by Pieta Marina CateringLtd., the Company thathas recently won a call for tenders issuedbytheLocalCouncil.
79
Photo70:OldCustomsVerandah
Furthertothisaction,thePietaCouncilproposestodevelopalsotheadjacentSaMaisonJubilee Gardens, better known as the Pinetum, into a major public recreational area, including an al fresco catering establishment and parking facilities. Situated within easy access from Pieta Creek, bordered by Triq Indipendenza, Triq Sa Maison and the Floriana fortifications, the Pinetum (W00027) is a large creepy wasteland area, nestling on the Floriana fortifications (vide photos71&72). Area Policy GF13 of the GHLP underlines the critical importance of areas of open space and public gardens in and around Floriana and prohibits any form of development which detracts from or jeopardises these areas. Furthermore the Policy promotes the introduction of a systematic rehabilitation and treeplanting scheme, together with a management and maintenanceprogramme.
80
Photo71:AerialviewofPinetum/SaMaisonJubileeGardens
Photo72:Pinetum/SaMaisonJubileeGardens
81
Onsimilarlines,AreaPolicyGF14statesthattheJubileeGardens/Pinetumwillbethesubjectof an appropriate management scheme designed to ensure that the seminatural characteristics of this area are maintained, and the cleaning, restoration and rehabilitation of the underground networkoftunnelsaspartofthehistoricalglacisiscarriedout. The zone will also include the ditch areas currently housing adhoc buildings and structures (includingnissenhuts)occupiedby GO/Maltacom(T.72973)andthePolice(G.31080).Toquote fromthePolicy:
This management plan needs to establish pedestrian links with the surrounding urban areas, together with provision of parking areas off Triq Sa Maison; make provision for hard landscaping and security, including lighting, decorative features, seating areas etc; and most importantly embark on a replanting programme, including diversification with other indigenoustreespecies.
Within this development, one must include the Pieta Bocci Club situated at the base of the Pinetum, opposite the Pieta roundabout. The Bowling Pitch and adjacent structure are currentlyleasedtotheKunsillMaltiGhalliSportunderTenementT.78909.
2.2
FurtherPoliciesRelevantToTheWholeAreaUnderReview
2.2.1GHLP&StructurePlanPolicies
Reference is made to the Valletta Inset Map and Floriana Inset Map of the Grand Harbour Local Plan attached as Annexes II and III respectively, which cover the whole stretch of Marsamxetto waterfront. The one policy that sticks out within the whole area under review, as depictedinbothmaps,isGeneralPolicyGC04.
82
This Policy, in conjunction with other policies in the GHLP and in the Structure Plan, provides certain guidelines for the various activities encouraged to be undertaken in the different sections of the Marsamxetto Harbour. For the Valletta stretch, in particular, from IlFossa basin up to the Excelsior Hotel, the Policy supports the upgrading of the waterfront for public use and proposes to pursue an active programme of improvements to the area including the provisionofopenair,sittingoutareasservedbywaterrelatedsportsactivitieslikewaterpolo, sailing,anddiving.Inaddition,therockybeachesintheareawillbeprotectedandstructures should be minimised, preferably kept to what already exists. Ferry landing points also need to besafeguardedandupgraded. For the Floriana stretch, Policy GC04 encourages the retention of existing uses, namely as an interisland ferry terminal, for military (Armed Forces of Malta) use and for leisure uses. In other words, the Policy consolidates the present location of the Naval base and indicates the need for intensification of its use. Provision is also made that the rest of the Hay Wharf zone can be used for leisure and education related activities, including water related users such as theexistingNauticalSchool,yachtingfacilitiesandsimilaractivities. Incontrast,however,StructurePlanPolicyTOU8statesthat:
ThePlanningAuthoritywillgivefavourableconsiderationtotouristsandrecreationrelated facilitiesontheWaterfrontoftheMarsamxettHarbour.TherelocationoftheAFMnavalbase and the adjacent Nautical School is envisaged so as to secure public access to the waterfront and possibly to establish an additional road access to Valletta and Floriana subject to local plan studies. Development will include the removal of the existing clutter of small buildings at the base of Valletta/Floriana fortifications, so as to portray the fortifications to their best advantage. Public access on the foot and by small boat shall be secured around the entire harbourwaterfront.
83
In addition, General Policy GC03 of the GHLP underlines the potential for further improvement in the recreational use of the Marsamxetto shoreline within the entire Valletta / Florianawaterfrontandbeyond. ThePolicystatesthat:
The Planning Authority will encourage investments from both the private and public sectors for improvement and embellishment of the urban waterfront and the provision of appropriate facilities for recreation in accordance with the zoning and use guidelines containedinthisLocalPlan,togetherwithStructurePlanpoliciesonaccessandcoastalareas, particularly CZM 3. Particularly for Valletta, it will prepare an Action Plan for the entire waterfront, from the entrance to the Great Ditch on Marsamxett side, to Lascaris on the GrandHarbourside.
In terms of fortifications, it is widely expressed by various quarters that many parts of our fortifications are currently inaccessible and thus cannot be properly enjoyed by people. As provided in policy TOU11 of the Structure Plan, the GHLP Policies GH06, GF12 and GV09, encourage the creation of Heritage Trails and recreational footpath systems along the Valletta / FlorianabastionsandMarsamxettowaterfront. Starting from Fort St. Elmo and linking the various places of historical interest, view points, gardens and other facilities, the trail system would allow the fortifications to be appreciated in their entirety and would representa new tourist and recreational facility in an areanot usually frequented by tourist and casual visitors. Appropriate signposting and informative panels, landscaping and lighting, display of works of arts would be required to ensure the success of the scheme. The public art programme could provide opportunities for the involvement of privateorganizationsinsponsoringandpromotinglocalartsandcrafts.
84
2.2.2StructurePlan:CoastalTopicPaper
The results of a Public Attitude Survey carried out by MEPA in 1999 show that the Maltese Islands coast is generally perceived as a recreational resource that needs to be protected both for this purpose as well as for environmental ones. Constrained by the limited shoreline available but demanded for use by various sectors, it is necessary to preserve coastal areas for those uses that depend on a costal location (harbours, marinas, etc.) and as an informal recreationplaceparticularlyrelatedtowatersportsandcostalwalks. The Coastal Topic Paper, a section of the Structure Plan referred to at the beginning of the report, highlights the fact that the small size of the Maltese Islands and the intensity of the costal uses put an immediate limitation on the extent of development projects necessitating landreclamationfromthemarineenvironment. Furthermore, structural stability and the use of appropriate construction materials are of utmost importance in ensuring the longterm existence of the reclaimed areas which are continuously exposed to wave action. Attention is also drawn to the necessity to consider all potential impacts that engineering works associated with change of coastline configuration (newquays,jetties,breakwaters)mighthaveontheadjacentareasandvariouscoastalactivities (i.e.bathingsafety). The most ecologically important area in the marine environment lies within 50 metres bathymetriccontourwherePosidoniaoceanicameadows,speciesprotectedunderinternational law, is present alongside the Maltese coastline. As these areas are also the ones intensely used for both maritime and recreation activities, the coastal engineering projects would have considerableeconomic,socialandenvironmentalimpacts.
85
In this regard, any increase in port related activities within the Marsamxetto Harbour will generate high impact environmental risks associated with heavy traffic. It is therefore essential thatasimilarmanagementprogrammeasthatinoperationwithintheGrandHarbourisputin placeinthisHarbourbytheMaltaMaritimeAuthority.
2.2.3StructurePlan:TourismTopicStudy
Another section of the Structure Plan is the Tourism Topic Study. The study states that the Tourism and Recreation planning policies produced in 1990 made a significant contribution to the strategic direction adopted by the Maltese tourism in shifting from a mass tourism destination to a higher quality product. The product diversification strategy was a very successful one, adding to the primary offer of sea, sun and sand other new ones like: conference and incentive travel, cultural tourism, diving and English learning, yachting and cruiselinerbusiness. There is, however, more scope for upgrading and enlarging the product range offered by Malta.Ofutmostimportanceinthisrespectistheneedforconservationofnaturalandcultural heritage resources, some of them being in stringent need for upgrading and improvement as regards visitor management and interpretation. Due consideration is to be given also to the proposed location, scale and design of any tourist accommodation projects, ensuring that they areintunewiththecharacteroftheplace.BothMEPAandtheMinistryofTourismsupportthe redevelopment for touristic use of existing vacant buildings with a historical context, particularlyinValletta. The biggest part of tourism activities in Malta is undertaken in coastal zones and along the shoreline (bathing, watersports, etc.). Various surveys were carried out on tourist and locals undertheTourismTopicPaperforreviewoftheStructurePlan.
86
For the purpose of increasing capacity along certain stretches of coast (as identified in the GHLP),thePaperstates:
Measurestobeconsideredmayincludeinterventionslikelimitedrockcuttinginterventions, provided these do not result in significant adverse impacts and are kept to a minimum. The provision of removable wooden walkways may also be considered. However, the use of concrete over rocky surfaces is considered unacceptable since such interventions are consideredirreversibleandresultsinsignificantdamagetothecoastalhabitat.
Further to promoting coastal environment as main tourist attraction of the Maltese Islands, the measures taken over the years to support tourism industry have mainly targeted coastal infrastructure development (accommodation, beach lidos, restaurants, etc.). The trend to maximise tourist exploitation of the shore, with many developments extending right down to the waterline, reduced substantially the areas available for informal recreation of both locals and visitors. This is a critical issue, especially on an island where areas of open space are limited. In this respect, the MEPA coastal strategy aims to safeguard free public access to the shorelinesandlowlyingrockybathingareas,ofcoursewithdueconsiderationalsototheother coastaluses. The major investment in the Sea and Cruise Passenger Terminals, together with various marketing efforts of both public and private stakeholders, consolidated Malta on the Mediterranean cruise map and led to a steady increase in the number of ships and cruise passengers arriving in the Grand Harbour. The results of a cruise passengers survey carried outundertheTourismstudyforStructurePlanreviewhighlightedthat90%oftherespondents were impressed by Maltas attractions, that merit a longer stay, and would recommend it to friends.
87
Although the sociocultural profile and the spending power of cruise passengers are higher thantheoneofmasstourists,theshortlengthoftheirstaylimitsthecontributiontheycanhave to the Maltese economy. The majority of the cruise passengers expressed their preference to individually explore a destination, the most visited site being Valletta. Besides the historic and cultural attractions, the shopping and recreational facilities are also highly sought after by cruisepassengers.TheoverallconclusionofthesurveyisthatcruisepassengersconsiderMalta as a destination worth returning to, with the Grand Harbour as an excellent berthing place, very hospitable locals and impressive natural environment. This is further confirmed by the fact that about 31% of respondents were return visitors. However, negative aspects in badly need for improvement were also pointedout: public transport to/from the quayside, taxi drivers behaviour, public conveniences, roads signage and tourist information points, dirty roadsandpoorpavements. The development of new cruise passenger terminal facilities, therefore, would increase our berthing capacity, attracting more and larger cruise liners to our shores. This will further contributetodevelopingMaltaasahomeportratherthanjustaportofcall. Aware of the higher spending tourists preference for accommodation within high quality and richculturalurbancentres,theStructurePlanencouragestouristdevelopmentaccommodation in Urban Conservation Areas (UCO), particularly in the form of conversion, extension, an refurbishment of existing buildings and facilities (Policy TOU9) . Furthermore, Policy UCO12 underlines the need for continuing commitment to the enhancement of Conservation areas, listed buildings and structures of outstanding architectural or historical interest, by means of promoting restoration, good street furniture design, landscaping and finding new uses for vacantandunderusedbuildings.
88
Furthermore, Structure Plan Policy TOU11, supports publicprivate initiatives and collaborations in ensuring that Maltas numerous heritage buildings and structures are made more accessible and interesting to tourists. Such items of architectural and historical interest are to be appropriately preserved and rehabilitated, enhancing and supporting Maltas promotionasaqualitytouristicdestination. The Tourism Topic Paper further states that improvement in this respect may involve the development of visitor centres, provision of interpretative facilities and for basic facilities like toilets,carparks,retailoutletsrelatedtothesite.Attentionisalsodrawntoanumberofvacant historic buildings, special reference being made to Fort St. Elmo in Valletta, which is steadily decaying, giving a derelict image to the area. The Planning Authority encourages its reuse which would be a catalyst for the upgrade and revitalisation of the historic area of lower Valletta.
2.2.4TransportAccess
In terms of transport, as outlined by the Governments Consultative Document Valletta and Floriana: A Strategy to Improve Access, the access and traffic congestion problem arises from the continuous increase in number and use of private cars. Buying a car is no longer regarded as a luxury but an essential investment, allowing one to go to different places without depending on others. As a result of countrys prosperity but also due to its geographical specificities,theuseofcarsinMaltahasnowsurpassedtheleveldisplayedinmanydeveloped countries. To address this situation and to allow the historic cultural value of Valletta and Floriana to be fully enjoyed by residents, shoppers, visitors and tourists, the Government has proposed a numberofsolutions.
89
Theseare:
Expandingtheexistingpedestrianzones; Introducingmodernpayparkingsystem; Reducing the need for people to park in Valletta or Floriana by providing alternative optionsinsecludedareasorundergroundparkingspaces;
Stimulating introduction and use of alternative means of public transport for entering VallettaandFlorianaandforconnectingthedifferentpartsofValletta.
Whilst some of the above solutions have already been put into action, others, although at various stages of implementation, are to be further pursued and hastened, maybe even revamped if required. A case in point is the ferry landing points along the Marsamxetto waterfront,whichneedtobesafeguarded,increasedifneedbeandupgradedwherenecessary. It is common knowledge that ferry services have been provided within the Marsamxetto Harbour for quite some time now. Nevertheless, it is widely accepted within the industry that thepresentarrangementsneedtobereviewedandanenhancedproductdeveloped. Complimentarytothisview,GeneralPolicyGT12oftheGHLPencouragestheincreaseduseof ferry services as a means of public transport that facilitates circulation across the Marsamxetto Harbour. This is even more pertinent now that both the development of Manoel Island and Tigne are well under way since such development is surely to lead to more intensification and extensionofrouteswithintheHarbourarea. In line with the aforementioned Government strategy, the Malta Maritime Authority has, in fact, recently issued a request for proposals in respect to the operation and provision of
90
scheduled regular services for the carriage of passengers by sea on routes linking Valletta and neighbouring areas within the Grand Harbour and that of Marsamxetto. These areas are densely populated and the use of ferry services is regarded as a sustainable alternative means ofpublictransportforthosewhoarecommutingonadailybasistoandfromValletta. Naturally, such means of transport would then need to be complemented by other means of landtransportleadingtoandfromtheCity.
91
RECOMMENDATIONS
WayForward
3.1
It is widely acknowledged, within local spheres, that the beautiful baroque City of Valletta is a shadow of its former glory, mainly due to the neglect the City has suffered throughout the years. The overall lack of cleanliness and shabbiness of Vallettas stretch of shoreline along Marsamxetto Harbour and the immediate surroundings of historic landmarks, such as Fort St. Elmo, lack the necessary sparkle needed to attract visitors to the lower parts of Valletta and its shorelineperiphery.
ThestretchalongtheMarsamxettoHarbourwaterfrontisvoidofproperrecreationalactivities. The few that exist are not officially recognised, more often than not existing only out of pique between local communities rather than proper management. Others, such as the waterpolo pitch, have either been abandoned, vandalised or left to die a natural death. There are no proper pontoons for hobbyboating, no proper recreational/bathing facilities for the public, no proper centre for amateur fishermen. Amongst all, no suitable walkway exists along the shoreline,connectingtheVallettastretchwiththatofFloriana.
InthewordsofjournalistStanleyBorg,citedinhisarticleonVallettatitledIdentityGuard,
Theplayground,whichistheonlyoneinValletta,istoodangerousforkidstoplayin.Drug abuse is the second highest in Malta. Junkies shoot up in empty buildings or in stairways, and in summer, when children go down to Marsamxett to swim, the sea is full of syringes Youngpeoplehavesomuchanger,whichiswhytheyresorttovandalism.
Itisevident,therefore,thatsomeformofregenerationdevelopmentisrequiredwithinthearea under review in order to provide locals, tourists and the general public alike with more
92
attractions, proper embellishment, different recreational pastimes and legitimate commercial activity,especiallyinrundownareas.
To date, any developments carried out in Valletta and its periphery have been based on Renzo Pianos guidelines, which most refer to as the Valletta Master Plan (VMP, 1989). Although a formal master plan based on these guidelines has never been drawn up, these guidelines, according to the former Executive Coordinator of the Valletta Rehabilitation Project,serve as the basis for discussion for all developments in Valletta, and particularly they are the basis for all decisions and projects at the Valletta Rehabilitation Project office (IlBiccerija Case Study, EntrustResearchProject20012007).
ThedriverbehindtheguidingprinciplesoftheplanistherevitalisationofValletta,startingan economicandsocialmovementwhichinturnwillleadtoahealthycitywhichdoesnotwantto beamuseum.Theproposedframeworkisbasedon:
development of an urban axis traversing through the middle of the peninsula, from the ArgottigardenstoFortSt.Elmo;
control of the city perimeter where numerous functions are superimposed (fortifications, gardens,traffic,qualityhousing,etc.);
continuous connectivity between the axis and the perimeter. To ensure this, a number of nodes were identified along the outer perimeter from where the city would be irrigated withpedestriantraffic.
On the Marsamxett shoreline, three such nodes were pointed out: Fort St. Elmo, Due Balli (Duwi Balli) and Cockneys areas. Each such node was provided to include a number of activities and services that attract the public, like: bus stations, car park, ferryboat landing,
93
mechanisedverticallinksandpublicopenspaces(squares,gardens,playgroundsandstreet furniture). The development gap between the upper and lower part of Valletta, cited in 1989, is even wider today and in stringent need of address. The Master Plan identified a number of special zones:residential,commercial,administrative,cultural,greenspaces,recreationalandtouristic.
The whole Valletta stretch of Marsamxetto waterfront was identified in the Master Plan as a recreationalandtouristicarea,wheregardenspacesaretobepresentallalongtheway.FortSt. Elmo, with its insufficiently exploited cultural potential, was earmarked as a main cultural zone to be protected and developed. The necessity to plan for a hotel in the vicinity of the Mediterranean Conference Centre was also highlighted, possibly at the Evans Laboratory site which was proposed for demolishment. Other structures along the shoreline were also identified for demolishment, namely the AFM buildings at Hay Wharf and other structures in theDueBalli,CockneysandDowlingareas.
3.2
Proposals
This report has given a detailed review of all the Government property (land) and Governmentowned property (buildings) located on the landward areas along the Valletta/FlorianastretchofMarsamxettoHarbour.
In thisanalysis, a number of areas which could possibly offer potential for future development have been identified. On the basis of this analysis and, after having reviewed the Valletta Master Plan and other documents and reports on the area, a number of suggestions have been taken on board and are being put forward in the form of a set of proposals for the location underreview.Theseproposalsaredescribedinthefollowingpages.
94
3.2.1PROPOSALNo1:ANewBreakwater
A number of studies, referenced in pages 68, have been carried out in the past for varied projects connected with Marsamxetto Harbour, in particular, the notion of building a breakwater at the entrance of Marsamxetto Harbour as opposed to creating a number of smallerbreakwatersatthemouthofeachcreekwithinthesameHarbour. We have consulted a Marine Engineer on this notion who, after having reviewed the afore mentioned studies and taken into consideration the characteristics of Marsamxetto Harbour, came up with the following configuration for a new breakwater at the mouth of the Harbour, namely by having the main arm (longer arm) jutting out to sea from Tigne at Dragut Point (il Ponta ta Dragut) and the secondary arm (shorter arm) strategically placed beneath Fort St. Elmo, a few metres away from the existing Grand Harbour breakwater at St. Elmo Point (il PontataSantIermu)(refertoFigure3onpage96andinAnnexIV). The studies generally show that the significant wave height at the Marsamxetto Harbour mouth is of the order of six (6) metres, with a predominant wave direction of fortythree (43) degreesnorth.Theseadepthisgenerallyslopingfromten(10)totwentyfive(25)metresacross the Harbour mouth. However, there is a significant amount of sediment on the seabed, which studieshaveshowntobeunsuitableasabasematerialforboththebreakwaterandtheberths. Fromanenvironmentalandeconomicperspective,aconventionalrubblemound breakwateris not recommended for the area. This is because of the quantity of material required and the unacceptably large footprint necessary. On the other hand, a composite vertical breakwater, with a rubble mound foundation where the depth exceeds twenty (20) metres, is the most suitable configuration. This configuration can be achieved either by using concrete caissons
95
filled with ballast material or by using cellular steel caissons or steel combi walls filled with ballastmaterial.
Figure3:Proposedlayoutfornewbreakwater
With concrete caissons, extensive precasting facilities would be necessary. It would be very difficult to find a suitable hinterland near enough the site. Furthermore, a relatively large labour force and precasting equipment would be necessary and the fabrication and placing timesmaybeunacceptablylongifashortfabricationandconstructionwindowisrequired. Ontheotherhand,steelpilingcanbeimportedatshortnoticeandarelativelysmallhinterland is necessary. The equipment and labour required as well as the construction time is considerably less when using steel piling. In addition, the fill material can be sourced from
96
large scale excavation being carried out on medium to large construction projects. Rather than dumpingoffshore,thematerialcanbeusedforthispurpose. The estimated infrastructural cost could be quite considerable given the nature of the project beingproposed.Notwithstandingthis,andaswillbecomeclearattheendofthereportonceall proposals are put forward, the creation of a breakwater at the mouth of Marsamxetto Harbour wouldmakeanumberofotherproposalspossible,therebyleveragingthecostacrossanumber of projects as opposed to only one. Moreover, the project could be subject to a Public Private Partnership or a similar joint investment initiative as it would do away with the need for the privateshelteringinitiativescurrentlybeingproposedatdifferentpointswithintheprecinctsof theHarbour. Without in any way suggesting that such a project has already been given the green light, the artists impression found on page 98, is only aimed at providing a visual of how the proposed breakwaterwouldlooklikewithinitsenvirons. VisualsofallproposalscanbefoundinAnnexV.
97
ProposalNo1a:AnewbreakwateratthemouthofMarsamxettoHarbour(Existing)
ProposalNo1a:AnewbreakwateratthemouthofMarsamxettoHarbour(Proposed)
98
3.2.2PROPOSALNo2:ANewCruiseLinerPort
During the past decade Malta has proven itself to be an increasingly attractive destination for the expanding cruise liner business in the Mediterranean. In fact, the Malta Cruise Network, a network of stakeholders involved in the local cruise liner industry, claim that the Grand Harbour has become one of the most important ports in Europe for the cruise industry, being the seventh most visited in Europe in 2005. Furthermore, according to a study published in Brussels by the European Cruise Council, which represents the leading cruise companies operating in Europe, Malta has managed to build modern cruise liner facilities that are attractingalargesegmentofEuropescruisepassengers. The Valletta Waterfront website also claims that, just a few weeks ago, precisely on the 5th of October, a total of eight cruise liners had entered the Grand Harbour, establishing a record number of ships in harbour on any one day and beating last years record of seven liners. Without a doubt, such events act as a good reminder of the growing success of this incumbent industry, which has experienced a growth of 63% in terms of arriving cruise passengers over the last 3 years. Statistics also show an estimated contribution to Maltas GDP of circa 93 millionEuros. Inadditiontothispositivehype,oneshouldcommendVISETsagreementwithHeritageMalta to jointly promote the Countrys heritage with the global cruise liner industry. The two organisationsareusingtheircorecompetenciestopromotewhatMalta,asacruisedestination, has to offer, including heritage sites, attractions such as the Grand Harbour itself, exhibitions and other events that are held regularly or from time to time. The ultimate aim is to provide visitors with an enhanced experience by showcasing Maltas most important historic and artistictreasures.
99

1 - Fort ST Elmo& Marsamxetto Rep Part3

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

1 - Fort ST Elmo& Marsamxetto Rep Part3

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Photo53:AerialviewofOldLaboratoryBarracksandsurroundings

AFM Naval Base

Networkof Passages within Fortifications

Polverista Curtain Restoration Unit

ThedriverbehindtheguidingprinciplesoftheplanistherevitalisationofValletta,startingan economicandsocialmovementwhichinturnwillleadtoahealthycitywhichdoesnotwantto beamuseum.Theproposedframeworkisbasedon:

You might also like