The Government has taken a major step toward improving judicial infrastructure in Gozo with the signing of a Promise of Sale agreement for the acquisition of the former Downtown Hotel property in Triq l-Ewropa, Victoria. This development will pave the way for a new, modern, and accessible courthouse that meets the needs of the Gozitan community.
The property was selected following an extensive evaluation process and rigorous assessment of key criteria, including location, accessibility, size, legal status, compliance with safety standards, redevelopment potential, and financial viability. Among 11 submissions received during the Public Market Consultation, the former hotel emerged as the most technically and financially suitable option. Strategically located in the heart of Victoria, the site offers excellent accessibility and ample space for redevelopment into a contemporary courthouse. Its redevelopment feasibility, negotiated acquisition price of €6,325,000, and projected redevelopment cost, further reinforced its selection as the preferred choice.
For decades, Gozo’s courts have operated from a historic 17th-century building within the Citadel. While this heritage site has served the island well, growing caseloads and evolving legislative requirements have made the premises inadequate. The urgent need for improved accessibility, compliance with health and safety standards, and modern judicial facilities drove the search for a new location. The Court Services Agency launched a Public Market Consultation in November 2022 to identify suitable properties in line with Public Procurement Regulations. Following approvals, negotiations led to the signing of the Promise of Sale. The redevelopment works of the Court are expected not to exceed three years.
Minister for Justice and Reform of the Construction Sector, Jonathan Attard said that this is a significant milestone for the justice sector in Gozo. He stated: “After years of discussion and planning, we are delivering on our promise to provide a modern, accessible court that meets the needs of today and tomorrow. Justice should never be compromised by infrastructure limitations, and this project ensures that Gozitans will have equal access to justice in a dignified environment.”
Minister for Gozo and Planning, Clint Camilleri, thanked Minister Jonathan Attard and the Court Services Agency for their work on this investment in Gozo.
“We welcome this long-needed step to ensure that the Gozo Court has an accessible building that meets today’s requirements. This is an important investment being made in the island of Gozo so that all those who work in the courts on a daily basis, as well as citizens, are provided with a Court that is fully equipped for all necessary functions. We now look ahead as works begin to convert the building.”
During the press conference, a walkthrough and artistic impression of the proposed courthouse design were presented, offering a clear vision of the planned redevelopment and its benefits for the community. Dr Vanessa Grech, CEO of the Court Services Agency, provided a detailed overview of the process that led to this acquisition, outlining the steps taken from the initial market consultation to the final agreement.
The press conference at the Ministry for Gozo and Planning was attended by Johan Galea, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry for Justice and Reform of the Construction Sector, Mario Borg, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry for Gozo and Planning and the Court Services Agency’s administration.
Photos: MGP/MJR
