Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects Aaron Farrugia visited ongoing works as part of a €25 million project to extend Pinto Quays 4 and 5 and reconstruct and realign Lascaris Wharf, forming a new continuous berth along both areas.
This new 350-metre berth along Pinto Quays 4 and 5 and Lascaris Wharf will introduce a much needed additional berthing space in the Grand Harbour. It will improve the efficiency of this port whilst providing local maritime authorities with increased flexibility and availability on the use of other quays in the same area.
During the visit, Minister Farrugia said that “this project is a clear demonstration of how the work carried out by Infrastructure Malta extends to marine projects as well. This project will not only give an important boost to the Grand Harbour but will in turn also offer a boost to the local economy, as it will allow us to cater for larger vessels.”
It was further explained that the new quay area will extend over an area of 5,200 square metres. It will berth vessels up to 320 metres long and up to a draught of 10 metres.
This €25 million project includes the laying of 200 metre piled platforms and the repairing of existing structures. The agency will also protect the existing and new constructed seawalls from scour through the laying of scour protection material. The agency will also re-route surface water drainage and renew hardstanding surfaces. The new berth will also feature other facilities, such as new security fencing and a new high mast lighting system.
