A survey by newspaper Illum has revealed that the vast majority of Maltese are in favour of the Central Link project. The survey shows how Maltese view the project which aims to reduce traffic on one of Malta’s busiest thoroughfares, which sees heavy traffic on a daily basis.
Asked whether they agree that the government should carry out the Central Link project, 51.6% of Maltese felt it is necessary and therefore they want the project done. Only 19.5% had an unfavourable opinion. The rest of those participating in the survey said they have yet to form an opinion on this project. The survey takes note of the views of people living in different regions of the country. The number of those in favour of the project has always exceeded the number of those against. The highest number of those who are uncertain whether they want the project to go ahead or not seems to be prevalent in Gozo.
The Central Link project is a major investment project which has come under fire by those who insist that a substantial number of trees from Attard to Rabat will be destroyed in the process. Infrastructure Malta and Minister Ian Borg have continually denied this, reiterating that this project will be planting 285 more trees than there are today. This project will include 51,000 square meters of pedestrian areas and open spaces to be enjoyed by the public. There will also be infrastructure for alternative modes of transport with 11,000 square meters of cycle paths. Government spokesmen insist that above all, and most importantly, the Central Link project will reduce waiting time by 50%, for thousands of cars which use this route on a daily basis, resulting in reduction of 66% of emissions and air pollution.