NGOs Vow Legal Challenge Against Manoel Island Padel Court Approval
· Updated
In brief
- Environmental NGOs and activists have condemned the Planning Authority's approval for padel courts on Manoel Island.
- Protesters accuse the government of betraying promises to establish a national park on the island.
- Organisations have vowed to pursue legal action to challenge the decision, stating they will "go all the way."
Environmental non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and activists have strongly condemned the Planning Authority's recent approval for the development of padel courts on Manoel Island. Protesters gathered to voice their anger, accusing the government of betraying earlier promises to establish a national park on the site.
Activists stated that they feel "used" by the decision, which they believe goes against the public interest and previous commitments. The approval has sparked significant backlash from various groups advocating for the preservation of public open spaces.
In response to the Planning Authority's decision, the NGOs have vowed to pursue legal avenues to challenge the approval. They declared their intention to "go all the way" in their fight against the development, indicating a prolonged legal battle may ensue.
A protest was held on Friday evening concerning the illegal construction of padel courts on Manoel Island. Activists who addressed the event expressed worries about future commercial interests on the island, particularly after MIDI's departure. The protest was triggered by the illegal construction of padel courts by Gżira United FC president Sharlon Pace.
Activists and various non-governmental organisations, including Moviment Graffitti, organised a protest march through Manoel Island yesterday evening. The demonstration was held to oppose the Planning Authority's recent decision to approve plans for 30 padel courts on the island.
The protest was part of the ongoing "Manoel Island: Post Għalina" campaign. Participants voiced concerns that the approved project threatens the future of Manoel Island and marks another step towards its commercialisation, going against previous commitments for the site.
The Spin Room
Low media divide. All outlets reported the protest against the Manoel Island padel courts consistently, focusing on the demonstration and the reasons behind it.
Updates
- : Updated with details of a protest held on Friday evening regarding the illegal construction of padel courts and activists' concerns about future commercial interests on Manoel Island.
- : Protesters marched through Manoel Island yesterday evening to oppose the approved plans for 30 padel courts.