Land earmarked for development transformed into Ġnien il-Koppin in Kirkop

Land in Kirkop that had been earmarked for development has been transformed into a new public space following works carried out by Project Green. Ġnien il-Koppin now offers residents an accessible and sustainable space within their community. The garden was inaugurated by the Minister for the Environment, Energy and Public Cleanliness, Miriam Dalli, together with the Mayor of Kirkop, Matthew Agius Zammit, in the presence of the Project Green team and representatives of the Kirkop Local Council. The space covers 1,600 square metres in an urban area of the locality. With an investment of more than half a million euro, several interventions were carried out to turn the site into a public garden. The space includes a viewing platform, pathways made from recyclable materials, areas for aromatic herbs, as well as structures that promote pollination and biodiversity, including an insect hotel and children’s play equipment. As part of the project, 55 mature trees were planted, together with indigenous plants and trees, with the aim of strengthening the local ecosystem. The garden includes an automatic irrigation system powered by a 110-cubic-metre reservoir, built specifically to ensure more efficient water use. The sustainability element was also reinforced through solar-powered electrical systems. Minister Miriam Dalli said that the project is a clear example of how land that could have been developed was instead turned into an open space for families and residents. “This was land marked for construction. The Government made a pledge that more communities would have open spaces within a 10-minute walk, and we identified land that, instead of being built up, could be turned into gardens and parks. Today, Koppin residents have a new open space, with environmental and educational elements, instead of more buildings. Our vision is to continue creating more open spaces in the heart of communities,” said Minister Dalli. The project architect, Cheryl Camilleri, expressed her satisfaction that the space is now being enjoyed by Kirkop residents. “Ġnien il-Koppin is an open space with different elements and can be used for various activities. It is a garden that welcomes everyone and should be enjoyed responsibly, so that it continues to serve the community in the years ahead,” said Perit Camilleri. The Mayor of Kirkop, Matthew Agius Zammit, said that the project is an important step for the locality, as it gives residents a new space where they can spend quality time in a cleaner and more open environment. “I thank the Ministry for their vision and commitment to sustainable development and more resilient communities. This garden is a clear example of how public infrastructure can be created through an innovative and responsible approach, with the majority of it made from recycled material and with minimal use of new resources. This not only reduces environmental impact but also promotes a culture of sustainability that we want to see grow in our community. The opening of Ġnien il-Koppin in Triq Nerik Scerri is not just a new space, but a symbol of a clear choice in favour of the common good. The Government chose, instead of selling or developing this site, which could have included around 11 blocks of buildings, to create a new green lung in the heart of our village. This is a concrete investment in residents’ quality of life and in the sustainable future of Kirkop,” said Kirkop Mayor Matthew Agius Zammit.