In recent years, the Government has continued to invest in the St. Thomas area of the Bay of Plenty in order to enhance and beautify this site, which is so popular with the Maltese, especially those living in the south of the country. Extensive work has been carried out on a number of maritime structures that were in an advanced stage of deterioration, with three piers being rebuilt. Over the past few months, work has focused on public walkways and access to this area, with the aim of improving the experience of all those who visit this place.
In recent weeks, work has also begun to protect and reinforce the coastline inland, towards Munxar, where rocks have been placed to act as protection against the storm (revetment). In fact, the parts that were at an advanced stage coped well during Storm Harry. So much so that where there was no rock yet in place, a number of metres inland from the coast were eroded. Work in this area is continuing to ensure the protection of the road and surrounding infrastructure. In addition to the infrastructural work, Infrastructure Malta, after obtaining permission from the Planning Authority, will be building new public toilets to serve all those who visit this area.
The Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works, Chris Bonett explained that during the storm of a few weeks ago, considerable damage was caused to the sea wall that had been built decades ago, where the structures were completely destroyed. The damage caused is irreparable and these structures will have to be rebuilt. He said, “As the weather conditions appear to have stabilised, work has begun to repair the damage while we are ensuring that all ongoing projects resume at a rapid pace.” Among others, he mentioned the Msida Creek projects, the Marsaskala promenade and the Buġibba square project as examples.
With regard to the St. Thomas area in Marsaskala, Minister Bonett stated that the works are planned to be completed by the summer months so that all those who visit this area can enjoy it in a more beautiful and safer environment.
Photo: MTIP
