Ministry defends removal, relocation of Coast Road trees

Reports in the media about the removal of trees from Kennedy Grove have triggered a response from the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure.

In a press statement, the ministry denied that the estimated 2,000 trees were to be removed solely from Kennedy Grove, saying that the trees being removed were spread over 7.3km along the Coast Road, including Kennedy Grove.

“The removal or replanting was done after consultation between Transport Malta and the Mepa directorate,” the ministry said.

The trees were removed and the native species were replanted in different localities, including Pembroke, Marsaxlokk, Santa Venera, Dingli and Ta’ Qali, the statement read. Invasive species, like the acacia, could not be replanted. Rarer species were given to local nurseries and Argotti gardens.

The ministry added that the number of trees being planted instead of the invasive species exceeds the number of trees removed or relocated.