THE MINISTRY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, ENERGY AND ENTERPRISE: Development-zone-turned-public garden: Ġnien Victor Calvagna in Mosta inaugurated

An open space spanning 4,000 m2, using sustainable materials, for everyone to enjoy

Ġnien Victor Calvagna in Mosta, a space of 4,000 m2 that has been returned to the public, was officially inaugurated by Minister for the Environment, Energy and Enterprise Miriam Dalli.

This space has been transformed into a garden to be enjoyed by families living in Mosta and in nearby localities, through work done by GreenServ with the support of the National Development and Social Fund (NDSF).

With a million-euro investment, Ġnien Victor Calvagna is an urban greening project that will improve the quality of life of residents. The space is accessible to all and can host different local activities.

The project respects the principles of sustainability by making sure that materials used are both sustainable and energy efficient. Solar panels were also installed, and recycled material used. The garden was designed around the existing olive trees with the pathways made of natural materials.

“More residents and communities are seeking open green spaces in their localities. It is this government’s commitment for the next seven years to invest in projects that improve our localities and offer recreational spaces for everyone. We are focusing on projects that are environmentally sustainability, including in their design,” explained Minister Miriam Dalli.

“We made sure that sustainability is at the centre of this project with pathways made of natural material that go around the existing trees where we then placed a number of benches. All the equipment in the garden is made of timber from sustainable forests while the rubber used in the playground and the decking are made from recycled materials,” said WasteServ CEO Richard Bilocca. 

NDSF CEO Raymond Ellul said that the work done in Ġnien Victor Calvagna is part of a series of investments in urban greening projects being funded from the Development and Social Fund all around the country with a total investment of €4.5 million. He explained how NDSF is working to improve the social and quality of life of communities. Projects such as these are important for the physical and mental health of residents living in urban areas. 

Also present during the inauguration were members of the Mosta Girl Guides and Mosta Scouts who explained how this project will benefit their organisations. Relatives of Dr. Victor Calvagna, after whom this garden was named, also attended the event.​

Source: Office of the Prime Minister