02) The current approach falls short of humbly serving the residents, the identity and the unique potential of the Valletta Belt.
03) A revised economic model gives priority to fostering a deep appreciation for cultural heritage while creating balanced and sustainable economic opportunities where it is not the locality that must revolve around businesses, but it is the business that must revolve around the locality.
04) A new economic model emphasises the preservation and restoration of the architectural stonework of the Valletta Belt, including the paving and residential buildings, and transforms them into vibrant spaces that tell the story of the Belt's past and its people. Historic sites can be reused as museums, cultural centres, open for community use or venues for events that celebrate the Belt's artistic and historic heritage and the achievements of its people past, present and future.
05) Priority for the creation and maintenance of spaces in the Valletta Belt. The Fossa, Lascaris, gardens, and tree-lined streets can be integrated into the fabric of the locality. These provide residents with wellbeing and also promote sustainable practices such as biodiversity conservation.
06) Collective proposals for self-sustainability with the involvement of the local community and the encouragement of their participation in decision-making processes will foster a sense of pride in the Belt's development. Residents, businesses and organisations can collaborate to identify innovative solutions for sustainable practices, such as renewable energy sources, waste management, and environmentally friendly transport.
07) A model like this not only attracts quality tourists who seek an authentic experience and enriches our Belt but also provides its residents with a high quality of life.
08) The Valletta Belt has the potential to be a brilliant example of how economic growth and heritage preservation can go hand in hand, and create a Belt that is truly sustainable and strong.
"The economic model had to be one that grows permanent residents, and not just a tourism one"
09) Any government had and still has the capacity to start projects that generate income for the local community, similar to how the private sector operates. The key distinction lies in the fact that when projects are handed over to the private sector, only private entities take the financial benefits. If governments maintain control over such projects without ceding property or public assets, this leads to community benefits through reinvestment in local areas and their citizens.
*Every proposal will be solidified and improved once the Council, under our leadership, convenes public meetings with the residents.
