During a press conference, Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works Chris Bonett officially announced the start of a regeneration project in Marsaskala with an investment of €18 million. The project includes the reconstruction of the 1.5-kilometre promenade that leads from the parish church to the former Jerma Hotel. Among the main components of the project is also a new ferry landing that will serve to connect the Għajn Valley and the South of Malta to the rest of the Tallinja Bil-Baħar services via the Fast Ferry that will take you directly to Valletta.
Minister Chris Bonett emphasised that this regeneration project will be giving Marsaskala back the dignity it deserves with a beautiful, safe and accessible promenade. “In Marsaskala we are not just beautifying it, but we are creating a new way of living and experiencing this village, with new mobility services such as the fast ferry, circular buses and a Park & Ride service, all alternative and sustainable means of transport.”
Minister Bonett continued by explaining how this project will not only bring life back to this locality but will also address infrastructural problems that the sea has created over time, including repairs to the slipways and piers. “This will be an integral link in the Tallinja bil-Baħar chain where we will connect the South with the rest of the ferry network in an efficient and reliable manner. We are delivering on what we promised,” concluded Minister Bonett.
Marsaskala Mayor Mario Calleja welcomed this project with satisfaction and said that this investment will restore the beauty and popularity that this locality had, when Maltese families would go to enjoy the promenade and the natural beauty of the area.
Professor Vincent Marmarà presented a detailed survey among Marsaskala residents, with this poll showing that there is strong support for this project, with more than seven out of ten residents showing a willingness to use the fast ferry service once it starts.
Works on this project are expected to begin soon and will be divided into phases to reduce inconvenience to residents and businesses.
Photo: MTIP
