Area of new and potential developments at the University Msida Campus. Design by Team 2 Architects, 2015.
assumed to remain at current levels.
been missed because of late buses.
Junction modelling software was
The architects used demographic
used to simulate the impact of future
projections to learn which localities will
commuters. Effort was centred on
experience an increase in commuters.
the roundabout junction between
They studied bus frequencies to
University and Mater Dei Hospital.
identify under-serviced routes.
The Modal Split was key to the
solution to encourage. Parking
Travel Plan survey showed that 66%
restrictions and timed parking
of students and staff used private
in residential areas would curb
cars, 22% public transport, and just
the overspill. However, limiting
7% carpooled. University parking also
private car use without working
overspills heavily onto surrounding
on the other solutions would
residential areas, putting pressure on
only frustrate commuters.
Built Environment Focus
the whole of the Msida and Birkirkara
26
Car sharing could be an easier
proposals. Results from the Green
The plans give priority to
area. Capping parking spaces on
pedestrians and public transport
campus is a short-sighted solution if
users. The entrance to campus would
measures are not taken to alleviate
be a pedestrian plaza, with a public
parking pressure on the whole region.
transport station. Traffic would flow
A multi-pronged approach is
from the roundabout to a route
needed to solve the crises. Students
beneath the plaza and parking from
are wary of public transport because
the ring-road would be reallocated
it is unreliable. Many lectures have
to underground areas. Parking
The problems are there, they will remain there, and they will probably increase unless there is a change in mentality.