Three representatives each from the government and NGOs comprise the new management board for the proposed nature park in the north west of the island.
The site at Ix-Xaghra l-Hamra covers 2.6 square kilometres, which is five times the size of Valletta.
Speaking during the board's first meeting, Environment Minister George Pullicino said the initial consultation period with all stakeholders should be completed by August. The board is chaired by Stanley Zammit, a former Environment Minister. The other members are Mark Mifsud from the Environment Ministry; Chris Attard from the Malta Environment and Planning Authority; Albert Mamo from the Home Affairs Ministry; Martin Galea, Din l-Art Helwa; Vince Attard, Nature Trust and Rudolph Ragonesi, Gaia Foundation.