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PR 10/24 | Perit Dr Jeanette Muñoz Abela Elected Vice-President of ECCE

Perit Dr Jeanette Muñoz Abela has been elected Vice-President of the European Council of Civil Engineers (ECCE), bringing her extensive experience and leadership to this European institution. Dr Muñoz Abela, who currently serves as Chairperson of the Permanent Committee on Engineering within Kamra tal-Periti and has previously held the role of Vice-President of the Kamra, will continue to represent the voice of civil engineers at a European level, now as Vice-President.

Dr Muñoz Abela commented, “It is an honour to be elected as Vice-President of ECCE, an organisation that has consistently championed the civil engineering profession across Europe since 1985. As civil engineers, we are at a pivotal moment where our expertise in sustainable solutions and innovation is crucial in addressing challenges like the climate crisis and advancements in artificial intelligence.”

Her election not only underscores her individual contributions but also highlights Kamra tal-Periti’s ongoing role in shaping the profession both locally and internationally. The appointment brings valuable insights and influence to Malta’s civil engineering community, fostering stronger connections between national and European engineering bodies.

Dr Muñoz Abela will be collaborating with ECCE President, Platonas Stylianou, and the executive board to advance several initiatives, including a common training framework for easier mobility of engineers within Europe and the upcoming 2025 publication of the Civil Professional Book, which will outline the profession’s contributions across the continent.

ECCE is also focusing on digitisation within the construction industry, with a position paper addressing Building Information Modelling (BIM) and artificial intelligence in progress. As ECCE nears its 40th anniversary, it continues to work closely with universities and industry leaders to ensure the profession evolves in response to emerging challenges.

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PR 09/24 | Kamra tal-Periti calls for Freedom Square to be handed back to the public on World Architecture Day

The theme of this year’s World Architecture Day, celebrated every first Monday of October across the world, is “Empowering the next generation to participate in urban design”.

It is a day on which the Kamra tal-Periti calls on all citizens, and in particular policy makers, to reflect on the state of architecture on our islands.

The Kamra has always been vociferous about the importance of promoting high quality architecture to ensure a better quality of life for all. It most recently gave a concrete example of how to achieve such an aim, by publishing a proposal for an urban park in the heart of Msida to visually demonstrate to the public that this is indeed possible, and to challenge public authorities on outdated vision for our islands.

However, if there is one intervention in Malta’s public space that symbolically embodies the disregard, verging on contempt, with which architecture and the work of architects is generally held, it is the blight around Freedom Square upon which the parliament building designed by Renzo Piano stands.

The fact that such ignominy is carried out at the behest of the highest democratic institution in the country, just underscores the dire state of architecture and the long road towards achieving the cultural sensibilities and basic educational standards necessary to truly begin to understand and address the issues surrounding quality of public space and general wellbeing.

Renzo Piano’s Parliament Building and the surrounding urban space were designed to promote transparency of the democratic processes. The permanently installed barriers that are erected around this building completely reverse the design intent of the architect, and instead places a physical separation between the electors and the elected, a gap which the design sought to eradicate.

The irony of this situation is further compounded by the fact that the institution that is entrusted by the Constitution to enact the laws of the land, is brazenly breaching several provisions of the same laws its members have passed inside that very building.

We call upon all the responsible public institutions, starting of course from the Speaker of the House, but also the Planning Authority, Lands Authority, and Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation, among many others, to uphold their obligations in the law and return Freedom Square to the public to whom they ultimately should hold their allegiance.

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PR 08/24 | Kamra tal-Periti calls on Mosta Local Council to make pedestrianisation work rather than reverse it

With reference to media reports stating that the Mayor of Mosta presented a motion to reverse the pedestrianisation of the core of Mosta, the Kamra tal-Periti calls on the Councillors not to succumb to commercial pressures that disregard community wellbeing.

Rather, the Kamra tal-Periti calls on the Mosta Local Council to implement measures to ensure the success of the pedestrianisation project. It is inevitable that such a major change to the urban fabric of Mosta will bring about a transition period through which local businesses will need to adjust, as the type and behaviours of their patrons inevitably change. This should not, however, deter the Mosta community from seeing through this transitory phase, in part by also supporting their local businesses with their custom.

If, as reported, activity during the periods when the square is fully pedestrian is low causing a temporary business downturn, it is incumbent on local and national political leaders to intervene by incentivising greater social and commercial activity in the square. Indeed, the Local Council should partner with central government to develop cultural and fiscal incentives during this transition period.

The Council of the Kamra tal-Periti is willing to support and discuss with the Mosta Local Council initiatives and incentives that can be developed, in consultation with Studjurban and local civic groups, to meet the needs of the various community interests.

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PR 07/24 | Minister Owen Bonnici visits Palestinian Student Workshop organised by Kamra tal-Periti

Zejtun, Malta – On Tuesday, 23 July, Kamra tal-Periti’s President, Perit Andre Pizzuto, welcomed Hon. Owen Bonnici, Minister for National Heritage, the Arts, and Local Government, at the Parish Hall in Zejtun, where he had the opportunity to engage with the students from Birzeit University. This visit allowed him to observe the students’ interaction with the local community and their application of insights to the redesign of Misrah Santa Marija. The ambassador of Palestine for Malta, H.E. Fadi Hanania, was also present, reinforcing the atmosphere of collaboration.

This workshop, part of the Palestinian Student Initiative of Kamra tal-Periti in cooperation with the Architects Association in Palestine, forms a crucial part of the ongoing collaboration within UMAR (Union of Mediterranean Architects) to foster architectural innovation and cross-cultural exchange across the Mediterranean.

For more information, please contact:
Joeaby Vassallo
+356 99 202 406
jvassallo@kamratalperiti.org

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PR 06/24 | Team of Periti behind KTP’s proposal meet IM to explain Msida Park project

Following a meeting held yesterday between the President of the Kamra tal-Periti (KTP) André Pizzuto and Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects Chris Bonett, another meeting was held this afternoon between members of the design team behind KTP’s Msida Park project and IM’s civil engineers. The purpose of the meeting was to explain the urban design and planning concepts behind the project to facilitate its development and implementation.

The parties are to reconvene at a future date to provide IM with the time necessary for the technical development of the new project. The KTP team committed to remain available to assist with its technical expertise as needed.

 

For more information on Msida Park visit kamratalperiti.org/msidapark

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PR 05/24 | Kamra Tal-Periti Unveils Proposal to convert the core of Msida into a Park

The Kamra tal-Periti, in collaboration with Periti Studio and designprinciple, has unveiled a new conceptual proposal that addresses concerns about Infrastructure Malta’s (IM) current plans for Msida creek, dominated by new roads and flyovers which would increase traffic flow through Msida. Indeed, IM’s project, which was approved by the PA late last year, aims to construct two 175-meter-long flyovers, with the objective of significantly increase the junction’s current capacity of over 4,500 vehicles per hour.

The IM proposal focuses on increasing vehicle throughput, radically contrasting with the international trend to remove motorways from city centres. In fact, there have been a number of successful international urban transformations over the years, some of which include:

  • In 2019 Düsseldorf, Germany: Major roads were relocated underground, creating a pedestrian and cyclist-friendly environment in the old town and shopping areas.
  • In 2020 Utrecht, Netherlands: The restoration of the Catharijnesingel canal prioritized pedestrians and cyclists, reconnecting the area with Zocherpark and improving public space and biodiversity.
  • In 2021 Toulouse, France: The renovation of Daurade Port resulted in lush green spaces, enhancing the area’s appeal and ecological health.

In line with international best practice, the Kamra’s proposal seeks to strike a more sustainable balance between the competing interests and users. Transport infrastructural needs are still met through its proposal, arguably more effectively, while also enhancing the local community’s quality of life.

The Kamra’s vision is to transform Msida’s core into a 20,000 square metre park, providing the densely-populated local community a much-needed public space for leisure and recreation. The proposal also reorganises two other junctions in the area such that the transport needs are concurrently addressed.

KTP’s proposal aligns with European Commission’s sustainability policies and climate targets such as Fit455, Green Deal, New European Bauhaus, and the Commission’s repeated recommendations under the European Semester process. It is indeed unfortunate that Malta is the only EU member state that saw an increase in transport-related emissions since 2005.

“Transforming Msida into a vibrant, people-centred, sustainable town, reflecting our broader vision for sustainable development in Malta. By prioritising public open space and accommodating various modes of transport, we can enhance the quality of life for our community and set a benchmark for future urban development., said Perit Andre Pizzuto, President, Kamra Tal-Periti

KTP’s new proposal aims to redirect traffic away from Msida, prioritize public transport routes with dedicated cycle lanes and freeing up space for urban greening. This reimagined area would significantly improve air quality, conserve the environment, and stimulate the local economy.

The proposal includes:

  • Preserving an uninterrupted public open space from Msida church to the newly proposed bus lanes, creating approximately 20,000 square meters of public open space and woodland.
  • Vehicular traffic will be diverted to the existing junction at the end of Valley Road, making it the primary North bound route to and from Valletta.
  • Two-way dedicated bus lanes throughout,
  • A dedicated bus lane from Msida to University skatepark.
  • Uninterrupted two-way single carriageway for private vehicles in Msida with traffic lights only for pedestrian crossings.

Perit Nicholas Mallia, one of the architects behind the redesign, stated that “our proposal reimagines Msida as a pedestrian-friendly, green space that improves air quality and offers a higher quality of life for its residents. This is about creating a sustainable future for Malta, one that prioritizes people over cars.”

KTP is committed to promoting thoughtful urban development, influencing government decisions, and educating the public on sustainable town-centre strategies. This proposal is a significant step towards making Malta more environmentally sustainable for future generations. Pizzuto also stated that “we look forward to discussing our proposals with the government, the opposition, the newly elected Local Council of Msida, and any other interested parties. It is not too late to revise the project to better serve the public good.”

For more information visit kamratalperiti.org/msidapark

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PR 04/24 | Kamra tal-Periti’s Palestinian Student Initiative Receives Government Support

Last Thursday, Perit Andre Pizzuto, President of Kamra tal-Periti, and Perit Joeaby Vassallo, Communications & International Secretary, met with Minister Ian Borg, the Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade, to discuss the Chamber’s collaboration with Birzeit University, Palestine. This initiative is aimed at organising a practical architectural experience for Palestinian architecture students in Malta.

During the discussions, Minister Borg praised the initiative, stating, “The real test of our country’s commitment to peace, mutual respect, and generosity towards people living in conflict zones is the success of such intercultural collaborations.” The Ministry for Foreign Affairs is providing consular assistance to facilitate the smooth arrival and stay of the students in Malta and other logistical support.

Perit Andre Pizzuto reinforced the Minister’s sentiments: “Architecture is about building communities through cultural gestures in public spaces that aim to improve the quality of life of those who inhabit them. By establishing robust collaboration among Mediterranean architects, we not only strengthen our professional ties but also amplify our collective impact on regional development. This summer, we are dedicated to enriching the educational experiences of our Palestinian colleagues through international exposure.”

Project Development and Updates

Kamra tal-Periti is setting up a pop-up studio for 15 Palestinian architecture students who will spend a the second half of this July in Malta engaging in a hands-on, transformative educational program. The studio aims to blend Palestinian and Maltese design approaches, fostering collaboration and idea-sharing among participants while establishing significant connections in the international architectural community.

Since its launch in April, the initiative has received strong support, with numerous Periti, architecture students and other individuals offering their assistance. Discussions with the Embassy of Palestine in Malta are progressing well to enhance this collaboration. We are calling on the public to support this project through various means, including accommodation, travel sponsorships, resources for the pop-up studio, and mentorship opportunities with local professionals.

Expression of Interest for Accommodation

As July approaches, there is a pressing need to secure suitable accommodation for the 15 Palestinian architecture students and 3 tutors participating in our program. In response to this critical requirement, Kamra tal-Periti is officially launching an Expression of Interest for Accomodation. While the students are prepared to cover their accommodation costs, any form of sponsorship, whether partial or complete, would be greatly appreciated and would substantially facilitate the success of this experience.

We earnestly appeal to the public and potential sponsors to assist in meeting this crucial need. For details on how to submit your proposal or to discuss potential collaboration, please refer to the Expression of Interest here.

For more information or to offer support, contact Kamra tal-Periti by email at jvassallo@kamratalperiti.org or via phone or WhatsApp at +356 99 202 406.

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PR 03/24 | Anomaly Of Unequal Validity Period For Various Development Permits Prevails

With reference to our press release published on 05/12/23 following the publication of a legal notice extending the validity period of permits expiring between 10th November 2023 and 31st December 2024, the Kamra tal-Periti notes that despite a positive disposition during meetings, the Government has so far failed to address the injustice that was caused for permit holders whose permits expired between 1st January 2023 and 9th November 2023.

These permit holders were, for some unknown reason, denied any extensions, while some even benefitted from two extensions totalling six years.

This situation is graphically explained below:

The Kamra, thus, urges the Government to rectify this anomaly as soon as possible.

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PR 01/24 | MDA & KTP launch National Building Council

This afternoon, the Kamra tal-Periti and the Malta Development Association announced the establishment of the National Building Council at Villa Bighi.

Perit Andre Pizzuto, President of the Kamra tal-Periti, explained that talks between the two organisations have been going on for over a year, as he outlined Kamra tal-Periti’s main motivations behind this initiative.

The reputational damage the industry has suffered in recent years was of major concern to the Kamra. He stated that as the major leaders of the industry, the Kamra and MDA were dutybound to address it.

Pizzuto spoke of the need to raise quality across the board, and for this to happen the industry must agree on universal standards applicable to all ensuring that this objective is achieved. He stated that it was thus not only inevitable, but necessary for the MDA and KTP to come together to form this National Building Council. He underscored that despite campaigning incessantly for over five years for regulatory reform, KTP members have come to the conclusion that the only way to make any meaningful progress is self-regulation.

Perit Pizzuto concluded that this initiative is a test for both the MDA and the KTP to practise what they preach, deliver tangible measures, and be held accountable.

Michael Stivala, President of the Malta Development Association, described this initiative as historic, and proceeded to outline the main priorities for the National Building Council, including quality of building and materials, safety standards for workers and neighbours, upskilling, education and training for all stakeholders, and sustainable buildings.

Stivala spoke of the importance that the MDA and KTP work more closely to develop common agendas that result in better aesthetics and enhanced infrastructural capacity of the country.

The MDA president also spoke of the cost of unnecessary bureaucracy that is estimated to inflate the value of each apartment by over €15,000, posing affordability challenges without providing any significant value.

At the conclusion of their speeches, the two presidents signed the cooperation agreement which officialises the formation of the National Building Council.

 

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