The Minister for Gozo and Planning Clint Camilleri together with the Minister for European Funds and the Implementation of the Electoral Programme Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi announced that the second phase of the Restoration Scheme for Ancient Buildings in Urban Conservation Areas has opened, for all residential properties located in the UCA around the island of Gozo.
Minister Clint Camilleri stated that, “In April of this year we announced the opening of the Urban Conservation Area scheme in Rabat Gozo. We also promised that we would not stop there and in fact today we are announcing that this scheme will be opened to the rest of the residential properties located in the UCA in all the other villages around Gozo. We will also extend this scheme to Urban Conservation Areas in Malta in the future.”
The Government has dedicated €58 million to the Priority for Sustainable Urban Development exclusively for Gozo, funds that have already begun to be used to prepare concrete projects and initiatives for the island. From these European funds, the Ministry for Gozo and Planning has managed to secure €5 million to restore properties in Urban Conservation Areas around the island. In addition, the Planning Authority has also allocated half a million euros in national funds so that the rest of Gozo can benefit from the restoration scheme.
Minister Clint Camilleri explained, “Just as we have managed to transform Valletta through European funds, it is now time for the whole of Gozo to benefit from a similar investment, especially now that our island is on track to be recognised as the European Capital of Culture for 2031.” He went on to say that this step demonstrates in action that this Government is placing Gozo at the forefront of its vision. This is because through this scheme, which encourages the restoration and preservation of historic buildings, the Government is continuing to promote Gozo’s cultural and architectural identity, while giving new life to traditional urban areas.
Minister Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi said that this scheme is a clear example of how European and national funds are being used in a structured way to create tangible results for local communities. He added that this initiative is part of the Sustainable Urban Development strategy which for the 2021–2027 programme period is investing directly in Gozo, not only in the area of built heritage but also in other areas such as social inclusion, mobility and ecological projects.
“Through this scheme, we are breathing new life into our villages and towns, by encouraging residents to maintain the unique character of historic buildings and at the same time improving the quality of life in our communities. European funds are an investment in the dreams of our people, and therefore this is an investment in Gozo that respects its past but also looks forward with a clear and sustainable vision,” reiterated Minister Zrinzo Azzopardi.
Buildings in the UCA can qualify for up to a maximum of €15,000, while properties scheduled in grade 1 or 2 can qualify for a maximum of €25,000, to carry out restoration works on the facades of their properties.
Minister Clint Camilleri concluded by encouraging anyone who owns property within the Urban Conservation Areas in Gozo and wishes to restore its facade, to apply for this scheme.
For more information and to apply, one can visit https://pa.org.mt/built-heritage-restoration-scheme .
Applications can be submitted through an architect and, once approved by the Planning Authority, approved restoration works can commence.
Photos: MGP/MFI
