'We deserve to be heard': Swieqi residents to protest proposed footbridge

A protest is being organised by the Swieqi Local Council over the proposed pedestrian footbridge along Triq Sant’ Andrija.

The protest will take place on 25 April at 10am in Triq Sant’ Andrija corner with Triq is-Slielem.

The footbridge proposed by Infrastructure Malta has already gathered over 100 objections.

Objections pointed out that the site falls slightly within the Outside Development Zone (ODZ), with some residents saying that approving such development risks setting an undesirable precedent for further encroachment into ODZ land.

While asserting that they fully support the prospect of improving pedestrian safety and connectivity in the area, the council expressed its serious concern over the planning application PA 1595/26, which aims to connect Swieqi to Pembroke.

Construction is projected to begin in June (Photo: Planning Authority)

They pointed out that the application was not consulted by Infrastructure Malta prior to its submission, despite its obligation to do so.

In fact, the council only became aware of the proposed footbridge through social media, which raised unease on the level of stakeholder engagement.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the council insisted that such proposals must be properly planned, transparently communicated, and developed in close consultation with all stakeholders, especially the affected localities.

“Our residents deserve to be consulted, respected, and heard. This proposal cannot move forward without proper dialogue and without addressing the legitimate concerns of our community,” said Mayor Noel Muscat.

The council also raised their worries on the projected cost of the footbridge, which they understood to be disproportionately high. 

They insisted that public funds must be used responsibly and efficiently, especially when more cost-effective and better-suited alternatives can achieve the same objectives.

In an effort to better understand the details of the proposal, the Swieqi Local Council met with the Infrastructure Malta architects involved with the project, as well as Infrastructure Malta CEO Steven Ellul.

The council also met with residents to better listen to concerns being raised by the community.

Swieqi residents pointed out the inconvenience of the proposed location, since it is distant from key residential and commercial areas, stresing the need to ensure that any pedestrian crossing is strategically located near public transport access points.

The residents and council noted that there are alternative locations that may better serve the existing needs of both Swieqi and Pembroke residents.

They also expressed their concern regarding the visual and structural impact of the footbridge, which may negatively affect nearby residences.

Following these meetings, the council presented an alternative solution in the form of a pedestrian underpass.

They said that their proposed approach could reduce visual impact, lower long-term maintenance requirements, and will allow for the footbridge to be better positioned in a more frequented area.

“We remain committed to ensuring that any development in Swieqi truly reflects the needs and well-being of our residents,” added Muscat.