Interstitial urbanisation and loss of sense of place : the case of Tal-Pietà

Abstract

This dissertation studies the evolution and effects of urbanisation in Malta, with a specific focus on Tal-Pietà. Several towns and villages in Malta underwent a rapid change during the twentieth century, with Tal-Pietà transforming from a small coastal fishing village to an urban hub dominated by public institutions. It also developed as an interstitial locality between Msida, Ħamrun and Floriana. The dissertation tested the hypothesis that through the process of urbanisation, the locality of Tal-Pietà experienced changes which contributed to a loss of sense of place. The research was based on qualitative study methods, involving the analysis of existing archives and map regression using historic maps. Interviews and cognitive mapping were undertaken to study the perceptions and attitudes of residents, commuters and community leaders, together with the perspectives of professionals. The results of this study have shown how Tal-Pietà was moulded by the planning decisions that were taken along the years. The most drastic change was experienced with the shift from a life focused around the waterfront to one focused around St Luke’s Hospital, which became the big presence of Tal-Pietà; this change was compounded by the physical disconnection of these two areas from each other. Loss of sense of place was confirmed, with the elements contributing to it including the lack of a clear centre where people can gather, the lack of a sense of community, the vague boundaries with other localities and the promenade being taken over by traffic and disordered buildings. This awareness of the loss of sense of place in Tal-Pietà highlights the fact that future interventions and planning decisions should involve the community so as to ensure an improvement in the quality of life of those experiencing Tal-Pietà.