Let me state a priori that I fully support the general drift of public opinion that something must be done urgently about the main entrance to our capital city. It is truly disgraceful but does that mean that we need to be faced with a take it or leave it situation? Could we not perhaps pick and chose the better elements of the proposed Piano plans?
I do not wish to enter the technical or architectural aspects of the debate on the project as there are definitely many more eminently qualified persons to do so. What I do object to is the way a new parliament building has been rather cleverly slipped into the project.
As Marisa Micallef Leysin rightly points out in her contribution in The Times (Colonising A Concrete Jungle) the public has been clamouring for the reconstruction of the old opera house site and not for a new building to house our parliamentarians in luxury. We also wanted to rid ourselves of the monstrosity of present day City Gate. Those, I think, were the public's two prime concerns. But in true "we-know-what's-best-for-you" spirit, the powers that be have decided otherwise.
The Prime Minister has been quoted as saying that the whole project will cost in the region of €80 million. Given past performance of cost control or rather the lack of it, I would not be surprised if the final cost is closer to €100 million!
From what I can make out of Renzo Piano's present designs for the old opera house site, I do not envisage much more than €10 million being spent there. If my estimate is anywhere near correct, then the new home for our 65 parliamentarians and the new city gate may end up costing in the region of €80 or €90 million. I also have reservations on the suitability and practicability of a roofless building as an arts centre - could we perhaps consider a retractable roof of sorts to get the best of both worlds, so to speak?
Just as I criticised the extravagance of the acquisition of Dar Malta in Brussels, I also question the wisdom of this decision. I have written more than once in The Times that the government should seek a less expensive solution for Parliament but as usual my pleas fell on deaf ears. I will not bore readers with the details of my suggestions but I am more than sure that there are less costly alternatives.
In conclusion, I believe Mr Piano's plans could be adopted as presented with the proviso that he uses his undisputed talents to create a new and wonderful garden/piazza for Freedom Square. I am sure he can come up with something very special. Parliament can wait.
Footnote: As I write this piece I note that a Times poll of 3,480 people is showing that only 33 per cent are in favour of the project. Does that mean anything?