Regeneration or gentrification? : the case study of Valletta

Abstract

Over the last decade, Valletta experienced many changes particularly after it was proclaimed as the European Capital of Culture 2018. The title as European Capital of Culture led to a drastic regeneration programme on a variety of levels particularly those connected to the cultural, social, and economic aspects. As a result, the City of Valletta witnessed a great deal of work on several sites which had been left to deteriorate, and which were in dire need of restoration, scattered all over the city. Some of the major regeneration sites included: the food/covered market, the old abattoir, Strait Street and MUZA. Clearly, the changes implemented within the city walls have had their repercussions on the local inhabitants and the impact of this state of affairs generated much discussion. The present study attempts to evaluate the impact of these projects and seeks to explore whether they have regenerated, or rather, gentrified Valletta. Furthermore, it seems that Valletta has undergone several population changes which likewise deserves some consideration. Another main objective of this study was to investigate tourism in Valletta and whether touristic activity has influenced the residential quality of life. Finally, the data was collected through interviews with local council representatives, as well as local residents. These interviews seem to suggest that regeneration was not as successful as it ought to be and that there is a newly built gentrification that has taken over Valletta. In fact, results show that regeneration was quite successful for the business, entertainment, and commercial activities but it did not really help to improve the quality of life of the residents, a theme which is discussed in the study.