Work is well underway on the new Court of Criminal Appeal building in Triq id-Dejqa, Valletta, with an investment of more than €5.1 million. The project will provide dedicated facilities for criminal appeals and free up space for more hearings in the main Courts of Justice building.
The government linked the investment to Budget 2027, under the theme Malta With You, and to its plans to make judicial services more efficient and accessible.
The Court Services Agency is carrying out the project, which will include three courtrooms, offices for the judiciary and administrative staff, and a dedicated registry and archive for criminal appeal records.
The building will also have a dedicated space where victims can wait separately from other parties involved in court proceedings.
Minister for Justice, Research and Innovation Clifton Grima said the project was part of ongoing work to improve the courts’ infrastructure and resources.
“When we invest in the Courts' infrastructure, we are investing directly in a better justice service for the citizen. This project will not only provide the Court of Criminal Appeal with a building specially equipped for its needs, but will also allow us to make better use of the space in the main Courts' building. In this way, we will be creating more opportunities to accommodate hearings and continue to strengthen the efficiency of the judicial system,” said Minister Grima.
Grima said court buildings should meet the needs of everyone who uses them.
“Justice is not only what happens in the courtroom, but also the environment in which the service is provided. Therefore, in this project we are also paying attention to the needs of victims, so that they have a safe and dignified space. We want Courts that are equipped for the needs of today and tomorrow,” the minister said.
The Court Services Agency acquired the site in October 2020. After the necessary permits were obtained, demolition and reconstruction works were ordered to begin in January 2025. The ministry said work was progressing well despite the challenges of construction in a historic area of Valletta.
The project includes building installations and finishes, furniture, audio equipment and X-ray machines. It forms part of the agency’s strategic plan to modernise the courts and provide dedicated facilities for specialised proceedings.
Photo: Daniel Scicluna, Department of Information.
