The Attard Girl Guides and Scout Group have transformed the shared outdoor area connecting their premises to a safer and more accessible space for the enjoyment of the two organisations’ younger members.
The meeting places of these two organisations are housed within Attard’s old abattoir on Triq il-Gradilja – a scheduled building of unique historical and industrial importance.
Inevitably, it requires constant maintenance and upkeep, which can be strenuous on the voluntary organisations’ funds.
They have embarked on an initiative, Making the Outdoor Area Safe and Accessible, funded by the Voluntary Organisations Project Scheme (VOPS), managed by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector (MCVS) and supported by the Inclusion and Voluntary Sector Ministry.
The VOPS funding opportunity, along with fund-raising efforts by both groups, made the restoration and conservation of the premises possible.
Prior to embarking on the much-needed refurbishment works, the boundary wall of the former butchery courtyard was deemed unsafe by an architect. This required the complete reconstruction of the wall, while preserving the old building’s architectural charm.
The previously neglected back entrance has been expanded and made wheelchair-accessible to provide a safer entry point for the young members of both organisations, away from the main road.
Additionally, the Ranger and Venture sections for young people, aged between 14 and 18 years old, joined forces to craft outdoor furniture from wooden pallets.
While serving as a learning experience, this initiative also led to the creation of a “cosy hangout”, with sofas and a coffee table for the enjoyment of both groups.
