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.