https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/70440 Thu, 23 Apr 2026 18:33:20 GMT 2026-04-23T18:33:20Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/94194 Title: Identifying recreational conflict at the waterfront : case study, Ta'Xbiex, Gzira and Sliema Abstract: Urban waterfronts have experienced a transition from serving as naval basis to places of enjoyment and relaxation. "Recent urban waterfront transformations are enormous enterprises, sweeping in scale and, taken collectively, represent a dramatic story of urban rebirth" (Breen and Rigby, 1996: 11). However, sometimes in trying to meet the demand as quickly as possible may result in planning that does not take into consideration all possible consequences. Very often haphazard development results in conflict among recreational and coastal users. It is clear enough that without experts' advice and law enforcement, goals will be difficult to realise and conflict hard to eliminate. However the main tool consists in combining the objectives of integrated coastal zone management with recreational planning. This dissertation aims to discover the main types of conflict that arise between recreationists and the causes that lead to such displeasures. The area under study is focused on the waterfronts of Ta' Xbiex, Gzira and Sliema and with the help of quantitative analysis it can serve as a step to ascertain the situation regarding coastal recreation in the Maltese Islands. Results of the study suggest that often conflict arises from misbehaviour and lack of dissemination of information from the concerned authorities, leaving the public in the dark. Several recommendations rlc11Jine wi1h the theme in question are finally proposed. Description: B.A.(HONS)GEOGRAPHY Thu, 01 Jan 2004 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/94194 2004-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/91705 Title: Recreational coastal development and public access : case study, Qawra coast Abstract: The coastal zone is generally characterized as a place for recreational activities, which is generally associated with the presence of the sea and wide range of activities that could be practiced. Coastal recreation has grown in popularity in recent years and includes coastal walks, water sports and bathing amongst other popular activities enjoyed by the locals and foreign alike. However, these activities are subject to limitation of access, where fifty percent of the Maltese coastline is inaccessible. 75% of this inaccessibility is due to natural constrains while only 2 % of the coastline is sandy beaches. Furthermore, 35 % of the coast was developed in relation to tourism and recreation. This coastal development can be categorized into two, that which accommodates the local needs and another which evolved explicitly for the international market. This dissertation examines the case of the coastal stretch along Qawra Coast. The stretch of coast overlooking Salina Bay is intensively developed for tourism and entertainment while the rest of the coast up to the Qawra Tower is relatively free from structures and used for various recreational purposes. Thus, within this area one can perceive coastal development which purposely developed for the international market, a number of boathouses which accommodate the local need and the free to all part of the coast. Within this scenario, an analysis of public access along this coastal stretch was assessed, through observation, quantitative and qualitative analysis and field sessions from July 2001 to April 2002. Cartographic material and aerial photographs determined land-use changes along this stretch of coast. All the results obtained were presented and analyzed. This case study highlights that public coastal areas are decreasing, since various coastal stretches along the Maltese coastline were privately developed. Despite the fact the construction of these structures may be important for the tourist industry and do enhance access to the lido users, they generally restrict public access. Furthermore, the freely accessible part of the coast characterized by the natural karstic environment is described as uncomfortable, difficult and dangerous to use. Thus, the solutions for facilitating access may be tackled through coastal management which aims to establish an integrated and sustainable approach towards coastal use. Description: B.A.(HONS)GEOGRAPHY Tue, 01 Jan 2002 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/91705 2002-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/90784 Title: Applying integrated coastal management in urban waterfront regeneration : case study, Cottonera, Malta Abstract: The Cottonera Waterfront project within Dockyard Creek offers an opportunity in determining whether the concept of urban waterfront regeneration and integrated coastal zone management (ICZM) principles are being implemented. Its importance is that the ICZM concept is still in its infancy in Malta although a number of Coastal Zone management (CZM) policies are being introduced. On an area basis, Cottonera, which is made up of the Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Cospicua and Senglea) has for a long number of years suffered neglect and the project promises to stop this decline, indeed heralding a string of opportunities. The field research examines the general public's reactions and the stakeholders' inputs. In this respect, a number of issues are explored, particularly the effect that the project would have on the localities. These practical observations are incorporated in a theoretical context and supported by statistical testing. The current ICZM European strategies were considered in the structure and approaches of this study. The observations prove that whereas participation from the regulatory bodies is present throughout the project phases, public participation is still somewhat lacking. However, it is evident that although CZM policies have only recently been applied, all those measures that are required to integrate the urban project with the waterfront are being realised. Description: B.A.(HONS)GEOGRAPHY Wed, 01 Jan 2003 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/90784 2003-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/90782 Title: Far from the maddening crowd : the potential of ecotourism development at Wied Babu, Zurrieq Abstract: The Maltese Islands depend significantly on tourism. This industry may leave considerable impacts on the culture and environment especially on a country lacking in natural resources. The idea that mega-projects, such as the continuous construction of hotels along the coast together with yacht marinas and golf courses, will enhance tourism growth is likely to bring further negative impacts. Thus the development of ecotourism offers a possible solution to improve the tourist industry and simultaneously ensure a sustainable means of economic growth. Ecotourism is a relatively new field in terms of sustainable tourism. The Maltese Islands have only just begun to adopt this concept within the tourism industry. UNESCO dedicated the year 2002 to ecotourism and the International Conference on Ecotourism held was a catalyst for practices that promoted ecotourism around the Islands. This has called for the designation of interesting sites around the Islands as places where ecotourism could be practised. This study examines whether there exists a potential for ecotourism development at Wied Babu. Wied Babu situated in the vicinity of the popular Wied iz-Zurrieq, is overlooked by many tour operators. Yet the potential of the area in terms of ecotourism is considerable. Wied Babu provides a unique environment with regards to endemic flora and fauna as well as geological and geomorphological features. The high cliffs provide an ideal location for abseiling activities and the valley is also popular with many locals during winter. The international situation with regards to ecotourism is first considered by looking into various case studies and global scenarios. Then the local context is studied using a holistic three bottom-line approach of sustainability. In other words the natural environment, social and economical spheres are discussed. This task is carried out through environmental attribute mapping and the use of Geographical Information System to analyse mapped data in Wied Babu. Social and economical issues and impacts are examined through interviews targeting local and foreign perceptions. In this way the ecotourism potential at Wied Babu can be conveyed holistically Description: B.A.(HONS)GEOGRAPHY Thu, 01 Jan 2004 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/90782 2004-01-01T00:00:00Z