A good number of parish squares both in Malta and Gozo have been given a satisfactory facelift. Actually in Gozo works are at an advanced stage at San Lawrenz, Xagħra and Nadur.

On the other hand, Victoria’sSt George Square appears to perhaps be striving for inclusion in the Guinness Book of Records as Gozo’s unfinished square. Notwithstanding the fact that embellishment works were started well over eight yearsago, its central circular area remains unfinished.

I can attest to the fact that according to the original plans submitted by the local council’s architect, the square’s central area was detailed to be paved with a large rose compass in coloured marble, as portrayed in various European squares.

Unfortunately rumour has it that two past councils chaired by the same mayor felt they should refrain from deciding what to insert in the square’s midst. I gather that the hurdle that cropped up centred on a second proposal concerning the insertion of a fountain.

This notwithstanding, the public remained in favour of having the square paved as originally planned, namely with a large rose compass. They vehemently opposed the introduction of a fountain and argued that this would create a host of problems and discomforts in such a small and popular area.

I hope that our council, after so many years having elapsed, will finalise this project as originally planned, well before the third week of July when St George’s festivities reach their climax in this particular spot.