An open letter to the Superintendent of Cultural Heritage

On behalf of Wirt San Ġwann and in my capacity as secretary of this local NGO, I would like to point out that a pillbox in San Ġwann is in danger of being demolished to make way for a block of apartments in the name of progress. This pillbox is a World War II Heritage Defence Site and merits protection and conservation for future generations.

We are aware that your office has already declared that it does not consider this structure worthy of conservation, but we would kindly ask you to reconsider and intervene since the pillbox has significant historical merit and warrants protection. It is inconceivable how a 1930s’ defence post in rural San Ġwann, part of the defensive strategy against invasion before World War II by the British Authorities, is considered to be of no heritage or historical significance or value. There have been several letters in the local papers attesting to this lacuna, and the Wirt San Ġwann committee strongly appeals to your duty and powers to protect Malta’s architectural and cultural heritage. The fact that the structure is somewhat dilapidated and weak does not justify inaction. It can be strengthened and restored as happens normally with other historical structures worthy of preservation and protection.

We appeal to your good sense and judgment in the circumstances and respectfully expect your help and assistance to conserve such an important heritage defensive structure which formed part of the overall war strategy of the island since the 1930’s.

We urgently request you to give this matter your full attention, as the application to demolish the pill box is due for an EPC hearing shortly.

We would appreciate your consideration of this request in the interests of Malta’s heritage which you are dutifully entrusted to conserve and protect in the name of the Maltese people for the sake of future generations.

Tony Cutajar Secretary Wirt San Ġwann