Għadira: Transport Malta says no marina or pontoons, but its plans show more boats

Transport Malta confirms that new permanent moorings are being installed across nearly half of Għadira Bay. While authorities say there are no plans for a marina or pontoon, Transport Malta has not disclosed the total number of new moorings being installed, leaving the public without the information needed to understand the true scale of the project. On the map, the new moorings will stretch about 2 km, the size of Valletta and Floriana together, making it the largest mooring area on the island.

The expansion of moorings fails to take into account the needs of other sea-based activities that rely on open water and unobstructed navigation. Windsurfing, kiteboarding, and small sailing boats require a spacious and clear fairway for safe manoeuvring, particularly as they depend on changing wind conditions. Increasing the density of moorings increases the number of yachts on what is supposed to be Malta’s largest swimming zone and reduces available space, and creates hazards for these sports. Kayakers, canoeists, and SUP users will face new risks as the added vessel presence and moorings obstruct lines of sight and limit their freedom and enjoyment of the natural shoreline.

The permanent nature of these moorings will also make it increasingly difficult for visiting boats to find safe anchorage, discouraging casual visits and further limiting public enjoyment of the bay from the sea. Għadira risks turning into an area reserved for the owners of the moorings rather than an accessible destination for all. 

Despite the rapid increase in boat ownership, Malta lacks essential marine infrastructure such as refuelling stations and serious enforcement by Transport Malta against noise pollution, light pollution at night and preventing boats from disposing of waste directly into the sea 

Momentum Chairperson, Arnold Cassola, said, “Momentum calls for a transparent and inclusive public consultation process, the disclosure of the number, size, and location of the moorings, and the commissioning of an independent environmental impact assessment, while ensuring that all stakeholders are properly considered. Għadira Bay is one of Malta’s most treasured natural open spaces, and any decisions affecting its accessibility and character should be made openly, fairly, and with the long-term enjoyment of all in mind”.

Marine notice: https://www.transport.gov.mt/include/filestreaming.asp?fileid=10844

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