/library/oar/handle/123456789/132696 2025-11-10T20:04:04Z 2025-11-10T20:04:04Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/133433 2025-03-27T07:11:51Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Ventilation service details and construction methods adopted in British military structures in Malta between 1864 and 1943 Abstract: For the majority of the British period in Malta, ventilation and climate control was achieved almost exclusively through passive methods. This was especially critical in high occupancy military buildings such as barracks and quarters. However, many of these methods fell out of use with the widespread adoption of electrical air conditioning and mechanical ventilation. This study examines the passive ventilation systems used in the British Period (19th to early 20th Century). The research focused on military accommodation and recreation facilities as these buildings are intended for high occupancy and feature ventilation systems which can be considered typical for the time of their construction. The research was conducted through archival research at the National Archives of Malta and the Public Works Department for drawings. Site visits were made to Mtarfa Barracks, St. Andrews Barracks, Fort Campbell, and St. Nicholas Married Quarters Cospicua. These structures were selected because both the structures and the drawings have survived to the present day. Fort Ricasoli was not accessible for site visits, however the wealth of material presented in the drawings provided ample information. No drawings could be located for Lintorn Barracks, Floriana, however the opportunity presented itself to visit it during its renovation which was invaluable to observe the internals of some systems. Additional references were made to the reports of the Royal Commission for Improving the Sanitary Condition of Barracks and Hospitals (1861 and 1863) as these define the regulations for ventilation systems in military structures built in the period as well as the reasoning and justification for each ventilation feature. All the sites examined were constructed after 1863. Supporting these reports are also additional documents from medical and sanitation specialists of the middle of the 19th Century, such as Nightingale, Farr and Guy, who pioneered sanitary improvements and drove public pressure to implement the improvements in the context of military accommodation. The passive ventilation systems identified in this study are technically practical, and able to support a good level of ventilation. For most part they are still viable for use in the modern context. Description: M. Arch.(Melit.)

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/132954 2025-03-07T14:50:01Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Putting children first : evaluating local councils' commitment in moving towards child-centric urban environments Abstract: This dissertation explores how Maltese local councils prioritise children’s well-being in urban planning, focusing on access to nature, walkability, playability, social connectedness, and a sense of agency. It begins with a literature review to identify key elements of child-friendly cities and analyses successful local and international case studies. The research addresses a critical question: whether Maltese local councils are genuinely committed to fostering child-centric urban environments and to what extent children are actively involved in related decision-making processes. Using a qualitative approach, the study features semi-structured interviews with a stakeholder (former president, Dr Marie Louise Coleiro Preca) and sixteen mayors from various Maltese local councils to gather insights on child-centric strategies. It identifies factors contributing to the success of these strategies and barriers faced by local councils that do not implement them. Interview locations were selected based on themes from the literature review and the interviews were transcribed and coded using ATLAS.ti to identify patterns. Findings are compared with existing literature to develop practical recommendations for local councils, policymakers, and urban planners. This study reveals both progress and persistent challenges in promoting child-centric urban development in Malta, underscoring the need for increased resources, systematic support and a collaboration across local councils, policymakers and communities. By prioritising children’s needs in urban planning, these insights aim to inspire more inclusive, sustainable environments that foster children’s well-being and active participation. Description: M. Arch.(Melit.)

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z