Updated: Modern Palace Square street furniture approved despite objections

Adds statement by the Valletta Rehabilitation Project

The Planning Authority has approved the installation of modern lighting and street furniture at Palace Square in Valletta, despite objections from the Cultural Heritage Advisory Committee.

The committee had found that the designs are not compatible with the historic piazza. It objected to the lampposts and eight central benches and noted that lighting should emphasise the important buildings at the perimeter of the square.

The Mepa Planning Directorate has still recommended approval, arguing that the general design, although anachronistic with the architecture of the surrounding buildings, was considered to be acceptable as it would not compromise the historic backdrop.

"The proposal is seen as merely introducing modern design elements which are clearly identifiable as being part of a contemporary scheme at upgrading this urban space. The street furniture proposed is considered as emphasizing on the architecture of the baroque/neo-classical buildings on the perimeter by the contrast it is creating. At the same time the minimalist designs are not interfering with the more elaborate buildings such as the Grand Master's Palace and the Main Guard."

The directorate also argued that the benches were being recommended as these would allow for a place to stop and rest in what would soon be the largest and most important piazza in the centre of Valletta (since Freedom Square is to be built over).

"The seating area will promote the use of the piazza as an informal meeting place and not just a place of transition from one location to another, thus further consolidating the rehabilitation of this urban space."

A representative of the Valletta Rehabilitation Project also agreed with the proposal, saying it would be better to have a few high lighting fixtures than having the square cluttered with lamposts.

The proposal was approved by all members except one. The Opposition representative voted in favour.

Mepa also granted permits for the street furniture, and a water feature, on condition that all items can be removed without harming the newly laid lava slabs.

Some three quarters of the square has been paved with the slabs. The whole rehabilitation project is due for completion in November, transforming the square from a parking lot into a pedestrianised area.

VRP WELCOMES APPROVAL

The Valletta Rehabilitation Project in a statement welcomed Mepa approval of street furniture for Palace Square.

It said the square was being given back to the people and its designs were aimed at fulfilling current needs within a historical context.

The VRP said the baroque facades around the square were being restored and the lava slabs was such as not to deflect focus from the buildings, The water feature would be flush with the ground and could be covered, so that the square could continue to be used for national activities such as parades. All other items of street furniture could be easily removed.

The benches would be made of hardstone and steel, thus continuing the theme selected by Architect Renzo Piano in his own projects.

The VRP said that in order to avoid having to install 12 lamp posts for adequate lighting of the square, there would be two high fictures each with five lamps. The fixtures will also host wi-fi and CCTV.