Save Sliema's open space

Over the years Sliema has been transformed into a faceless, overdeveloped, ugly, concrete town. There is so little that is pretty left in Sliema. There is so little open space left anywhere.

Qui-Si-Sana should be allowed to remain as it is - one of the last remaining open spaces in Sliema with fresh air for people (not just the residents) to enjoy. It is sad and shocking to think that this tranquil area could be turned into yet another concrete, commercialised centre together with a car park, bringing only pollution of all kinds (visual, noise, air etc.) to the area, as well as destroying further the quality of life the residents and visitors are entitled to.

As has been repeatedly stated before, a car park in this area is not necessary. The under-utilisation of the High Street car park close by is evidence of this and a car park at Qui-Si-Sana will do nothing to alleviate the parking problem that the other parts of Sliema suffer from. Bad planning during the recent "building boom" is the cause of that and a car park at Qui-Si-Sana, on the eastern side of town, is not now going to solve the problem.

As regards the new projects at Tigné Point, all include proposals for underground car parks, so an additional car park at Qui-Si-Sana will not serve their purposes either.

One feels angry and frustrated when one realises that this project will probably go ahead against the wishes of so many people, not for the benefit of the country but only for that of a few. One also questions the necessity of the car park when it is obvious that other facilities/services are needed to attract custom. Qui-Si-Sana does need a facelift after years of neglect - but not of this kind.

Considering all the arguments against and the strong feelings that have been generated, and considering also the intransigence of the authorities, surely people cannot be blamed for asking why this car park is so important and to whom.