Works are progressing on the extensive regeneration of Marsa’s town centre by the Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation (GHRC), with significant advances registered across the project area and coordinated upgrades to the electricity, potable water, sewerage and public infrastructure.
Minister Miriam Dalli visited the ongoing works together with GHRC CEO Gino Cauchi, Enemalta Executive Chairman Ryan Fava, Water Services Corporation CEO Karl Cilia and representatives of the Marsa Local Council.
The works include the repairs to the damaged 800-square-metre wall, leading to the main square, waterproofing and foundation works have been carried out. The laying of brick, franka and hardstone blocks is underway.
Around the church parvis, initial services have already been installed for street lighting, CCTV, irrigation, vehicle-charging infrastructure and facilities supporting the local community. The new Parvis structural substrate has also been completed, and works are also progressing on the surrounding pedestrian areas and paving.
In Triq Balbi, the new potable water main and house connections between Triq Qwabar and Triq is-Salib have been completed. The new rainwater collection and drainage system is around 60% complete, while works on the foul water network are underway. Pedestrian infrastructure is also at an advanced stage.
Minister Dalli said that the project brings together regeneration above ground with investment in the essential infrastructure serving the locality. “This is not simply a project to give Marsa a new appearance. We are using this opportunity to renew the infrastructure beneath our streets, improve public spaces and accessibility, and create a better environment for residents, businesses and everyone who uses the area. The progress we are seeing reflects the importance of coordinating these different interventions as one comprehensive project,” Minister Dalli said.
Enemalta is investing approximately €400,000 to reinforce the electricity distribution network in the area, including 2.2 kilometres of medium-voltage cables and 318 metres of low-voltage cables.
The Water Services Corporation is meanwhile replacing existing potable water mains and installing a new 350mm trunk main near the church and along Triq is-Salib tal-Marsa. The Corporation will also upgrade the sewerage infrastructure across the same area.
GHRC is coordinating the different interventions in close collaboration with Enemalta, WSC, telecommunications providers, the Marsa Local Council and the local community, with particular attention being given to reducing disruption to residents, businesses and local community activities.
