What did you think of Renzo Piano’s plans for Valletta when they were first announced in 2009?

I was shocked that the grandeur of having a gate guarding the capital city was quashed in favour of a ‘gash’ that one may mistake for unfinished work. I was hoping to see the theatre rebuilt exactly the way it was, seeing that most foreigners at that time used to praise it. Gavin Ellul, 25, Masters in Applied Chemistry.

I was used to the previous City Gate, and at first I was not in favour of the project, especially when I saw the plans for Parliament’s relocation and the roofless theatre. Christian Mallia, 25, MA Italian.

I wasn’t happy with the plans’ bombastic contrast in comparison to Valletta’s historical structure. Gianni Selvaggi, 22, Higher National Diploma in Media (Moving Image), Mcast.

Now that most of the works are nearing completion or visible, has your opinion changed?

My opinion hasn’t changed. While the theatre’s acoustics are amazing, mixing and matching old stone with new does not look pleasant to my eye, while the metal works trying to adorn the stone structure seem out of place. The gate resembles a discontinuation of the bastions surrounding our beautiful capital city. It should have been de­signed as a proper, elegant yet imposing gate. Gavin Ellul

Definitely, because today we are looking at a historical city full of buildings that shaped Malta’s history, with a touch of modernity. Valletta is a city which evolves through the years. However, I am still against the Parliament. Christian Mallia

Not really. But I have to admit I like the aesthetic of the Teatru Rjali and the refurbishment of St George’s Square. Gavin Selvaggi

V.18 is acting as a catalyst for other changes in the capital, and there are ongoing efforts to promote the city. What changes do you want to see before 2018?

I would like Valletta to be cleaner. Most landmarks and important buildings should be better preserved and maintained. There should be an emphasis to bring nightlife back to Valletta – it is unheard of that a capital city is dull on both weekdays and weekends. Gavin Ellul

During the past few years, Valletta has become a cultural hub in Malta, with various events such as Notte Bianca, and it has reached a climax by being named Europe’s Capital of Culture in 2018. This is just the beginning and the V.18 committee and all of us must do our best to promote the capital and help in any way possible. Christian Mallia

The broader inclusion and recognition of music and the arts in Malta’s educational institutions. Gianni Selvaggi

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