Marsaskala Sports Club quells residents’ concerns on impact of new waterpolo pitch

Marsaskala to get new waterpolo pitch which can be used all year round

The press conference was addressed by an infrastructure ministry architecht and a Transport Malta official
The press conference was addressed by an infrastructure ministry architecht and a Transport Malta official

The Marsaskala Sports Club president reassured residents that the construction of a new waterpolo pitch will only create minimal inconveniences.

The project has been subject to opposition from local residents who are concerned over the impact the project will have on their quality of life.

150 residents signed a petition objecting to the building of a water polo pitch that would be accessed from Triq is-Salini, which is on the opposite side of Zonqor Point. The petition argues that locating the pitch near a residential zone would cause noise problems for residents, as well as parking problems.

Describing the project as a “step up” in sports facilities in the southern part of Malta, club president Aaron Simpson said noise pollution would be minimal and that questions regarding parking would be later addressed during the planning process.

Simpson said the club has kept close contact with the residents in order to address their concerns.

A number of boat owners have also expressed their worries, since they will be no longer able to moor their boats in the area, saying that Marsascala bay is already very narrow, making it even more difficult to navigate.

In October, Transport Malta had published a notice to mariners asking them to remove boats moored in the area in question, in order for a “site investigation” to take place.

Konrad Muscat, a Transport Malta representative explained that the yachts that are currently moored in the area will be relocated to another area within the bay.

Janice Borg from the infrastructure ministry explained that following a call for a tender, the project is now awaiting approval from the Planning Authority.

The project comprises a 33-metre long pool, which will be heated throughout the year, together with a small indoor pool. The complex will also house a restaurant.

Once the project is approved by the PA, it is expected to be constructed within 18 months.

The Marsaskala Sports Club was evicted from the old national pool complex in Zonqor Point as part of the land concession linked to the American University of Malta project. 

The government had promised an alternative location to the club to replace the old national pool, which is to be integrated into the university campus planned for the area.