Earlier this year, it was reported that a rural area in Xewkija known as Tax-Xhajma was to be turned into a park and ride and bus terminus area.

Excavation works had already begun, even though it was reported that the proper permits were yet to be issued. According to a Times of Malta article in March, “bulldozers and other heavy machinery already cleared the area, moved earth and uprooted vegetation and trees.” A PA spokesperson had also told the newspaper that the works being carried out didn’t need a permit and “surveys are still being carried out.”

Recent photos of the excavation works posted to a Facebook group by a Gozitan local have now sparked a debate.

“I think it makes sense especially for festivities and events like carnival, feasts and horse races. It helps avoid a lot of confusion, illegal and dangerous parking. Much needed in Gozo which has zero park and ride facilities,” read one comment.

Another Facebook user said that the service will be for “Gozitans who commute to Malta daily" and should alleviate the parking problems in Ghajnsielem. Also, the buses are going to be electric.

Some also stated that the reduction of cars, or people giving up car usage, is needed for a Park & Ride service to work, even linking to the Malta-Gozo tunnel being proposed. “There is no plan to reduce cars. On the contrary, the proposed tunnel will need to have more than 6,500 cars passing through it daily to make it worth the investment.”

Others also suggested introducing different options, including a bicycle hub and bicycle lanes (proper ones) for ease of access in and out of various localities in Gozo.

What do you think of this initiative?