Tactical Urbanism as a Catalyst Shaping People-Centred Mobility in Malta through Experimentation
Authors
Dr. Antoine ZAMMIT, Department of Spatial Planning and Infrastructure, Faculty for the Built Environment, University of Malta
Abstract
As Euro-Mediterranean cities grapple with traffic congestion, limited public space and rising climate
vulnerabilities, there is growing interest in adaptable, citizen-led solutions to reframe urban mobility. This
paper explores the role of tactical urbanism – temporary, low-cost and participatory interventions – as a
strategic tool for testing and transitioning towards more resilient and sustainable mobility systems, centring
on the Maltese Islands.
Malta’s long-lasting car-centric culture has posed significant barriers to mobility transformation. At the
same time, its compact urban form offers potential for tactical experimentation. This paper presents some
key case studies that have attempted to push the tactical urbanism agenda. These include the Slow Streets
project, which positioned tactical urbanism as a key mobility strategy. Other examples include initiatives
within the Vjal Kulhadd projects, sustainable mobility guidance for Local Councils and efforts to establish
temporary play streets and weekend street closures. These endeavours have aimed to reimagine urban
streetscapes as shared, flexible and inclusive spaces, though not without challenges. A notable case is Mosta
Square, where pedestrianisation during weekends sparked political and community controversy but also
demonstrated how temporary closures can challenge car dominance and reclaim civic space.
Localised play street projects – facilitated through short-term road closures and signage – have generally
been well-received, fostering social and recreational functions. The paper explores why some projects are
more successful than others, suggesting that the interventions’ temporary nature might influence
community acceptance.
Ultimately, the research argues that these modest interventions may influence behavioural changes and
promote institutional learning. They serve as prototypes for longer-term spatial and policy shifts. The
conclusion calls for formalising tactical urbanism as a core component in mobility planning across
EuroMediterranean regions, emphasising its potential to address spatial constraints, promote civic engagement
and enable low-risk experimentation to drive sustainable urban transitions.
Keywords
Tactical urbanism, Malta, sustainable mobility, people-centred mobility, Slow Streets
