Drone footage shows scale of Manoel Island padel works halted by PA

Moviment Graffitti has urged the government to ensure any development on Manoel Island is in line with the long-term vision for the site as it released drone footage showing the full extent of the padel courts complex being built by Gżira United Football Club.

Last month, the Planning Authority had stopped the construction of the courts on the site of the club’s football pitch on Manoel Island.

The courts are subject to planning application PA/07995/25, submitted by club president Sharlon Pace. The application is still in the screening phase – the initial phase of the planning process when the PA assesses an application.

The images indicate that some of the courts are at an advanced stage of development, with some seemingly nearing completion.

In March, Prime Minister Robert Abela had confirmed the site was part of a concession to the football club, but added that works must proceed according to the law.

On Saturday, Moviment Graffitti, which forms part of the Manoel Island – Post Ghalina campaign that had successfully lobbied for the island to become a public park, accused Pace of “undermining the government” with his actions.

While confirming its “full support” for Gżira United Football Club to have its own facilities, the activist group insisted any facilities “must form part of the wider masterplan for Manoel Island”.

“We call on the Government to assert its hard-won authority over Manoel Island and its designation as a national park, and to ensure that any development is in line with the long-term vision for the island – not private commercial interests,” Moviment Graffitti said.