Exploring the current state and potential of urban green areas in Malta

Abstract

Urban green areas have the potential to add natural or semi-natural elements to localities in the Maltese Islands, particularly of relevance in the context of increasing urbanisation. These urban green areas, if implemented properly and effectively, could benefit the community. The aim of the research undertaken was to evaluate available public urban green areas in three localities within the Maltese Islands, namely Zebbug, Sliema and Balzan. The views of local councillors and residents on the current situation and potential of these areas were also studied. This was achieved by utilizing different methods. First, a critical assessment of current urban green areas was carried out based on criteria identified from the literature and by means of site visits. Second, interviews with local councillors from these localities were conducted, and finally, questionnaires were distributed to residents to obtain their views and knowledge on the subject with the help of a PPGIS software package (Maptionnaire). Results showed a general lack of fully functioning urban green areas distributed around the studied localities, local councillors agreed with this finding and felt they were not able to connect their residents with nature through the current public urban green areas. The major constraints were identified as lack of availability of land and a lack of funding for the development of new urban green areas. However, a strong interest in the issue and a certain amount of willingness to contribute to improving the current situation was present among the councillors. Residents of the three localities seemed to show a high interest in remaining connected to nature and although disappointed with the current urban green areas, showed an interest in seeing improvements. Results of this study have shown that continuing to increase awareness about urban green areas is vital, though, for successful urban green areas implementation, clear strategic planning from national to the local level is needed, with the inclusion of all stakeholders throughout the processes.