In her letter ‘Plans for Valletta’ (September 13), Madeleine Gera objected to my master plan for Valletta.
She considers my proposals for shops, hotels and transport measures to be ‘one-sided’. She then complains, and rightly so, about the issues that Valletta residents face on a daily basis: “Noise pollution, traffic congestion and random development incursions.”
It is precisely for these reasons that I launched my master plan for the capital city.
With regard to traffic congestion and parking problems within the city, I am suggesting a land transportation node in Floriana, where many modes of transport are located in one spot. This offers various efficient options for the commuters.
I also suggested the introduction of a shuttle circular minibus around the peninsula of Valletta and Floriana, connected to the various car parks in this area as well as to a maritime node that links to the Sliema-Cottonera ferries landings at the Grand Harbour.
Gera also suggested that I communicate with the Valletta residents to hear their grievances. I have already announced that, soon, I shall launch a consultation process with Valletta residents. It would be a great opportunity to discuss my ideas with well-meaning Valletta residents, as is Gera.