Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works Chris Bonett has announced a new maritime infrastructure project, aimed at improving the safety and operational efficiency of the Grand Harbour. With an investment of around 55 million euros, this project is aimed at reducing the effect of waves that currently affect critical areas such as Barrier Quay and the main maritime access points to Vittoriosa, Kalkara and Rinella.
Minister Chris Bonett said that this project is a clear example of the government’s commitment to continue improving the maritime sector, a key pillar of the country’s economy. “In addition to the economic aspect and the protection that this port offers for maritime activity, it is our duty to protect the cultural and natural heritage for which the Grand Harbour is known throughout the world. This project will strengthen Malta’s position as a natural maritime destination in the centre of the Mediterranean, with an infrastructure that meets everyone’s aspirations,” the minister said.
Infrastructure Malta CEO Steve Ellul explained that this project is based on three structures intended to reduce the impact of the waves that currently enter the Grand Harbour from the North-West, North-East and East and which are capable of leaving devastating repercussions.
This project, which is in line with the Malta National Transport Plan 2025, consists of three factors:
- A 600-metre underwater breakwater running from Imgerbeb Point to St. Elmo Point. This underwater breakwater is intended to calm the intensity of waves coming from the North-East and East. This has an impact on maritime operations.
- Two small concrete revetments at Imgerbeb Point, strategically positioned to reinforce the main structure.
- A 100-metre extension of the breakwater to the west of the existing one, specifically designed to mitigate the force from the North-West. These types of waves are the most persistent throughout the year, and therefore this breakwater is crucial to ensuring operational stability in the Grand Harbour.
Infrastructure Malta is at an advanced stage of planning and executing technical studies to construct a new breakwater along with other underwater structures. These plans have been submitted to the Planning Authority and the Environment Authority who are conducting a thorough assessment to ensure that environmental impact laws and sustainable development objectives are followed.
