The design submitted by Project Green for the regeneration of Ġebel San Martin in Żejtun has been awarded a special commendation during a prestigious awards giving ceremony of the Malta Architecture & Spatial Planning Awards (MASP) 2023, organized last weekend by the Planning Authority.

The Jury giving the commendation stated that the Ġebel San Martin, Żejtun neighbourhood regeneration project emerged as part of a comprehensive masterplan aimed at tackling challenges within the residential area. The overarching goals include improving the quality, accessibility, and community engagement of public spaces, all contributing to the creation of a sustainable urban environment. This project was designed following a vast consultation process with people from various ages. This resulted in a community-driven, safe design, which is only set to succeed.

Aside from addressing the issue of fast traffic in the area, that many times may be dangerous, this project will also be transforming the static playground, often attracting negative activities, into a dynamic, inclusive space catering to all demographics. The upgraded play spaces will also introduce innovative, unconventional elements to stimulate imagination. The dedication to green areas and landscaping will intertwine with resilient native plant species. Furthermore, including sensory pocket gardens and shade structures will help create a greener environment. The project also incorporates a series of walking paths and cycling lanes that are safe from vehicular deterrents.

Architect Katrina Grech Mallia from project Green said, “In this project we included different elements, including natural play elements, sensory area, sensory garden, a skate park for youths, as well as we took part of a road to create a multi-purpose area for the community”.

The regeneration of Ġebel San Martin in Żejtun includes the integration of rain gardens, swales, and the design of parklets along the perimeter of the area. The project aims to incorporate a SUDS system to promote a sustainable drainage system. Furthermore, the project shall also incorporate the existing reservoir underlying the playground whilst also introducing several natural filters. Understanding the local context and water scarcity, for greener spaces all year long, landscaping and vegetation were carefully chosen to be adequate.

Beverley Costa, COO at Project Green said that, “Project Green worked with the University of Malta, whereby this project was given to students and together we saw it grow. Project Green gave its’ feedback and chose two students whose design was closest to Project Green’s vision. During last Summer and in the beginning of this year we continued working together with the Project Green design team to develop this concept so that now we have a holistic plan”.

The local community was an integral part in the design of this project, primarily children, whereby through a placemaking session they had the opportunity to share their ideas of an ideal park and, eventually, they will see these ideas turn into reality. Such activities allowed Project Green to collect vital feedback from the community, while also fostering a feeling of community and ownership among the stakeholders, encouraging to use and enjoy the area more.

Joseph Cuschieri, CEO at Project Green said that he is, “very proud with the team that we are building at Project Green. We have a young team, a technical team of architects and other people who are being innovative in our projects. This shows that in the future Project Green is going to have the capacity to come up with innovative projects that reach people’s aspirations. I am sure this is a great baseline for what we will be announcing in the coming weeks and months.”