Petition launched opposing Pembroke Land Transfer for Football Campus development

Apr 7, 2026 8:45 am CEST

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A parliamentary petition has been launched opposing plans to transfer land in Pembroke for the development of a football campus.

The move follows the government’s intention to present a motion in parliament to grant a parcel of land in Pembroke to Valletta FC for sports facilities and broader community use.

Earlier this year, Prime Minister Robert Abela described the project as a major milestone for the club, which has operated for decades without its own dedicated facilities.

The site in question is currently earmarked in the local plan for office development and private housing, with an estimated market value of between €75 million and €100 million.

While the petition recognises the importance of investing in sports infrastructure and community projects, it argues that the proposal, in its current form and location, raises significant concerns that outweigh its potential benefits.

Among the issues highlighted are the loss of limited open space, the impact on the area’s natural and rural character, its proximity to a Natura 2000 site, and potential harm to residents’ quality of life.

The petition warns that the construction and operation of a football campus could lead to increased traffic and congestion, higher noise levels from training sessions and events, light pollution, and general disruption.

It also stresses environmental concerns, noting that the site lies adjacent to a Natura 2000 area. Development there could result in habitat disturbance, biodiversity loss, and broader cumulative environmental impacts—factors the petition says require a precautionary approach.

So far, the petition has gathered around 800 signatures, with more people continuing to add their support.

It calls for the proposed land transfer and development to be rejected, or at the very least postponed until a thorough and transparent environmental and social impact assessment is carried out, alongside meaningful public consultation with affected residents.