Malta's Planning Authority has halted construction of padel courts on Manoel Island by Gżira United Football Club, following its investigation into activists' complaints reported earlier this week. Prime Minister Robert Abela confirmed the stoppage, stressing legal compliance on the club's leased site.
The Planning Authority (PA) issued a cease order on Thursday, March 12, halting padel courts under construction on Manoel Island's pitch, used by Gżira United Football Club. This follows the PA's investigation, launched after reports from the Manoel Island – Post Għalina campaign and Momentum, which advocate turning the island into a public park.
Enforcement officers visited the site Thursday, confirming the courts were nearly complete despite lacking permission. The works relate to pending application PA/07995/25, still in screening.
Prime Minister Robert Abela confirmed the halt to journalists, noting the land's concession to the club but emphasizing lawfulness. He hoped for a resolution balancing sports facilities and broader land use.
Gżira United had denied wrongdoing, framing the project as enhancing sports on leased land for community and sustainability. No further club response on permissions was provided.
The controversy unfolds amid government plans to acquire Manoel Island from MIDI for a national park.
