A multi-use approach towards managing open green spaces : the case of Tal-Wej

Abstract

During the last decades the field of landscape ecology has become an essential tool for land-use planning. This is due to the fact that it takes a holistic approach with regard to different land-uses present within a given area, as well as patterns of land-cover over time. Extensive research has moreover highlighted the importance of open green spaces, especially in urban settings since it has a significant effect on the surrounding environment, its ecosystems and its human population. Successfully managed open green space have the capacity to serve as a multi-functional platform for a wide range of users hence providing multiple benefits to urban communities. The importance of such spaces lies in a myriad of environmental and anthropogenic benefits. The present study focuses on the area known as Tal-Wej, approximately situated in the centre of mainland Malta, encompassing two increasingly urbanized localities, those of Mosta and Naxxar. The locality also harbours a number of important archaeological, cultural and ecological assets that are unique to the area. Field visits are carried out in the area of study with a view to determine if the site can be managed as a multi-use open green space. Furthermore, fifty six interviews and questionnaires were conducted to gather stakeholder data indicate that the area‟s residents are amenable to the notion of an open green space that will serve for their recreational purposes. Moreover, residents are aware of the important assets that lie within the area and trust it is safeguarded from further building development. The study concludes that implementation of policies favouring a multi-use open green space would be beneficial to the area and its community.