Restore the area
Recently, calls have re-emerged for the restoration of one of Malta's abandoned landmarks, Selmun Palace.
Over 5,700 people have signed a petition calling on the government to take action and start restoring the 18th century heritage building, Selmun Palace, which has been left in a terrible state over the past years. The petition was launched by Mellieħa Councillor and PN Candidate Ivan Castillo three years ago.
There are a number of landmarks around the country which are currently left in a bad state. The two most notable ones are the aforementioned palace and Fort Ricasoli.
It has already been announced that Fort Ricasoli will be restored, but many questions still surround Selmun Palace.
Indeed it is not the only historical site one finds in Selmun. Just down the road lies Fort Campbell.
Possibly in even a worse state than Selmun Palace, many people - Maltese and tourists alike - make their way to the fort on a sunny day to walk around its grounds, trail down to the clay hills and experience some of Malta's most picturesque views of St Paul's island.
The Fort was abandoned years ago, and its buildings are collapsing. It is a spectacular area and unique in that people walk around this historical Fort freely, picnic in the area, ride their bikes and just enjoy nature.
There is absolutely no doubt, however, that the area needs some care.
PN MP Robert Cutajar had asked a Parliamentary Question on the issue back in May, saying that when he was Mayor. the Mellieħa local council had launched a process to take control over Fort Campbell, questioning what happened after the 2013 elections. "The Mellieħa local council did not continue with its plans for Fort Campbell," the response to the Parliamentary Question read.
What a shame.
The site should be restored. A debate should then take place as to whether to turn it into a tourist attraction, or just leave it open so that families can freely enjoy walking around and explore the Fort. While Selmun Palace could definitely attract tourists, Fort Campbell could also do the same. One thing remains for sure - the sites should be made accessible to the public, and not be used for private events or anything of the sort.
Malta has many Medieval forts, but not that many built by the British which are in good condition.
Selmun itself is one of Malta's more beautiful areas, but the dilapidated state of such landmarks means that some may be put off from visiting the locality. Malta is a small island. We have limited outdoor areas, limited space where the public can enjoy nature and unique sites for free. Selmun, if restored, could be a place where more Maltese families go to on the weekend just to enjoy each other's company.
One hopes that the government is considering restoring these two landmarks to their former glory and, if it isn't, it definitely should.