I refer to the article ‘National parks for Malta’ written by Martin Galea (April 13).

He makes his point about a greener Malta very clearly.

Hopefully, the contribution will ignite a little spark in all concerned and make us more aware of the urgent need for creating and preserving.

I was recently reading a review by John Arlidge of a book entitled London, slow burn city by Rowan Moore. The author mentions many attributes and features that make London great.

I quote from what he had to say: “What makes a city great is creative interplay between capital, citizens and visions of the public good… He reminds us of the bold steps politicians have taken over the past two centuries to make London so desirable. They created and protected the parks, commons, gardens and squares that greened the city; marked out the green belt that prevented sprawl.”

Green areas and open spaces. How I wish our politicians and speculators give these features more importance. Malta is slowly being suffocated by the concrete cancer creeping all over.

Over the years, I have written about this subject. Since before the millennium, I have been suggesting that the Manoel Island should be reserved as a national park as it is located ideally in the centre, surrounded by one of the most congested areas in Malta. Sadly, this was not to be.

But perhaps we should put our priorities right. We should consider, preserve and create open recreational spaces.

At the end of the day, the parks and squares will remain with us.