A total of 180 trees will be uprooted if a road-widening project in Marsalforn, Gozo, is green-lighted by relevant authorities, a large portion of which are protected.

While the road may need resurfacing, Gozo residents have been left in the dark as to the motive behind the road-widening project. While Triq Marsalforn, or Marsalforn Street, connects Gozo’s capital Victoria to one of the island’s most popular bays, it is uncommon for traffic to be reported in the area, a fact which has also been mentioned in the project description statement.

Local environment and heritage NGO Flimkien Ghal Ambjent Ahjar have opposed these plans, claiming that the trees are a source of beauty and provide shade. They also mentioned that the trees were listed as a safety hazard in the above mentioned report.

One theory currently making the rounds on social media links the project to a popular wedding venue found along the road, with several commenting that the widening of the road would allow free and safe parking to guests during wedding season.

MEPA has the final say on the matter, with the project results expected to be published in the near future.