Walk the talk - understanding perceptions of walkability in Paola, Malta, as a key component of the 15-Minute City

• The study used Mapping for Change to gather data from community members, mapping their locations while being interviewed and identifying their perceptions of urban spaces in relation to walking in Paola, Malta. • The research revealed that shorter walking distances, such as a 5-minute walk are preferred by participants; highlighting the idea that the application of the Timed City concept to Malta requires a telescopic approach from the micro, to the meso and macro scales, depending on the services available in a specific locality. • Key findings identified that while Paola's urban fabric supports active mobility, infrastructural improvements such as wider pavements, reduced vehicle speeds, and increased urban amenities like trees and seating are needed to enhance walkability. • The study highlighted a significant gap between policy and implementation in Malta, where policies supporting active mobility exist but are often delayed or inconsistently applied, necessitating stronger political commitment and cross-sectoral collaboration. • The research demonstrated the importance of understanding personal perceptions related to walking, as these can enable local perspectives to inform recommendations related to spatial planning and transport, and consequently transform decision-making processes. The research investigates the socio-spatial dynamics of walkability in the urban context of Paola, Malta. Grounded in the concept of the 15-Minute City, the study set out to understand how people’s perceptions of proximity and walkability can inform spatial planning policies. Using Mapping for Change to map survey responses, data was collected to analyse participant perceptions regarding their walking experiences within Paola’s town centre. The research objectives were threefold: to identify factors that contribute to walking in dense urban environments, to explore how pedestrians’ perceptions of the environment can be used to shape spatial planning policies, and to assess the existing policy landscape concerning walkability. The study reveals that while the urban fabric of Paola supports active mobility, improvements in infrastructure, such as wider pavements and increased amenities like trees and benches, are necessary to enhance walkability. Additionally, the research highlights discrepancies between policy formulation and implementation, particularly in promoting sustainable mobility. The findings suggest that although national policies emphasize active travel, tangible action is less forthcoming. The results underscore the importance of engaging communities in planning processes and call for policies that foster safer, more attractive environments for pedestrians. Through this research, participants’ perceptions provided key indications about what can encourage active mobility and improve urban liveability, reinforcing the 15-Minute City framework for Malta.