Modernist substation to be demolished

The Planning Authority has approved a super-sized Enemalta substation in the Council of Europe Garden in Gzira, to replace a building which is described by architect Edward Said as a “folly-like eye-catcher in this peaceful garden”.

Said described the original substation as an example of a utilitarian structure designed with care and sensitivity to the site – a public garden with free flowing pathways and planters.

“The freeform, organic curves employed were back in the 60s and 70s very popular in art and design, not least architecture. In my view it is of equal architectural significance to the pseudo Gothic pumping stations of the 19th century and therefore merits protection.”

The justification for the new design is that the present substation cannot cope with the increase in electric demand in the area. The case officer makes no reference to the architectural value of the existing structure. No consultations were carried out with the PA’s internal heritage bodies or with the Superintendence for Cultural Heritage.

Flimkien Ghal Ambjent Ahjar had objected, arguing that the new building is “totally incongruent with its surroundings” in an area that is supposedly being converted to cater for upscale yacht facilities.  But the case officer argued that the contemporary design “respects the integrity of the garden”. The Gzira had also insisted that the substation should be re-located from the public garden.

The proposed substation would occupy an area of 76 square metres, compared to the 39 square metres of the present structure. In 2012 the PA had already approved a 50 square metre switchgear and transformer room next to the existing substation, whose construction started some months ago. The switch room will be integrated in the proposed new building.

“The context has already been crassly compromised by the abutting box-like substation that went up a few months ago,” notes Said.