Heritage Malta has formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Scouts Association and a letter of intent with Għaqda Storja Birżebbuġa, establishing a collaborative framework for the long-term management, conservation and community use of Fort Bengħisa. These collaborations represent an initial structured step towards implementing Heritage Malta’s vision for this historic site, laying the foundations for a shared approach to its stewardship and gradual transformation into an accessible heritage and community space. Fort Bengħisa, built between 1900 and 1902, is the last Victorian-style fortification constructed in the Maltese Islands and the largest of its kind by area, covering approximately 45,000 square metres. Defined by continuous adaptation – from the early days housing breech-loading guns, to continued military use even after coastal artillery was abolished in 1956, before eventually being decommissioned in the early 1970s – the fort’s history mirrors the wider evolution of Malta’s coastal defence strategy throughout the 20th century. Through the formalised agreements – symbolically signed during an open day at Fort Bengħisa organised by Heritage Malta – the partners committed to a coordinated management model that brings together heritage conservation, educational engagement and community participation, under the overarching stewardship of Heritage Malta. The Scouts Association will have dedicated spaces within the fort for organised events and activities, including camping, while also contributing to the site’s upkeep through an active presence and ongoing engagement. Għaqda Storja Birżebbuġa will play a key role in supporting historical research, interpretation and wider heritage outreach initiatives. Commenting on the signing, Minister for Culture, Lands and Local Government, Owen Bonnici, said: “This new framework of collaboration is an important step towards giving Fort Bengħisa a new lease of life and opening it further to the community. Through this work with voluntary entities and organisations committed to safeguarding our heritage, we are ensuring that this historic site is not only conserved, but also actively used for education, culture, and community participation.” He also thanked the Birżebbuġa Local Council for its cooperation, support and assistance in this project. Heritage Malta’s Chief Executive Officer, Noel Zammit, commented: “Following up on the fort’s entrusting to Heritage Malta, we have now fulfilled our promise and kickstarted the process to create a solid management plan, rooted in the community. With the help of these organisations, we aim to create a space where history is not only appreciated but lived.”The agreement lays the groundwork for Fort Bengħisa to be progressively developed as a multi-functional heritage site. Heritage Malta’s long-term vision includes opening up the fort as an accessible pet-friendly public space that integrates cultural heritage with outdoor recreation and educational experiences, while ensuring its proper safeguarding. During Saturday’s open day at the fort, the large number of attendees had the opportunity to get a first glimpse of this vision through artistic-impression videos showing how the project is expected to look once completed.Tag someone you know is interested•