Moviment Graffitti calls for signatures against Pembroke sports complex

Moviment Graffitti called on the public to sign a petition opposing the development of a “sports complex” next to a Natura 2000 site in Pembroke.

A previous parliamentary petition opposing the development had gathered more than 2,100 signatures but was rendered null and void following the early election in June.

Pembroke residents have since launched a second petition in a renewed effort to oppose the project.

Those interested in signing the petition may do so by clicking this link.

Since its launch in June, it has already gathered over 1,200 signatures.

Moviment Graffitti noted that a similar proposal in 2017 was halted following public opposition.

“Your voice matters,” the NGO said.

Last February, the government announced its intention to hand over a tract of land in Pembroke to Valletta FC for the development of sports facilities. The PN has also backed the land transfer.

However, Moviment Graffitti warned last May that, under existing and proposed planning rules, sports facilities can also accommodate large-scale commercial developments, including retail outlets, shopping centres, supermarkets, and catering establishments.

The NGO said the proposed development would take up a large and environmentally sensitive green area while significantly increasing traffic, noise, and environmental degradation.

It argued that Pembroke is already under pressure from major developments and warned that the proposal could further erode residents’ quality of life and the locality’s natural environment.

This is one of the locality's last remaining open spaces.

Moviment Graffitti also criticised the project for having been announced without consultation with residents, organisations, or other stakeholders.

“Now is the time to act, before more precious green spaces are lost to overdevelopment,” it concluded.