​Minister Jonathan Attard highlights progress on Rinella and Marsaskala projects as infrastructure works continue across the country

The first 100 days of a new legislature have been characterised not only by the development of plans for the years ahead, but also by a clear focus on turning those plans into tangible action. From the outset, work has continued to move from planning to implementation, with concrete interventions being delivered across communities.

Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Employment Jonathan Attard highlighted this progress during a visit as part of the '100 jum bis-saħħa tiegħek' campaign, in which he continued to meet with workers on site and engage directly with ongoing infrastructure projects.

“Through continuous coordination, a regular presence on site and a firm commitment to addressing the needs of our communities, we are continuing to advance projects with consistency, quality and a clear long-term vision. The works at Rinella and the regeneration project in Marsaskala are among the initiatives that reflect our commitment to creating better public spaces and delivering modern, resilient infrastructure for Maltese families," Minister Jonathan Attard said.

During the first 100 days of the new legislature, communities across the country have continued to see tangible evidence of this commitment through ongoing infrastructure works.

Minister Attard visited the two projects, which reflect a common principle that will continue to guide the work throughout this legislature: identifying the needs of communities, addressing them through concrete action and delivering infrastructure that improves the quality of life of citizens.

“The real measure of our work will be what we continue to deliver beyond these first 100 days. Project by project and community by community, our commitment remains to transform our surroundings through infrastructure that people can see, use and benefit from," Minister Attard said.

Rinella: Rebuilding on Stronger Foundations Following the Storm

Following Storm Harry, approximately 45 metres of the road structure along the Rinella promenade were severely eroded by the force of the waves. Other sections of the promenade also sustained significant damage and were identified as being at immediate risk of further deterioration and collapse.

Access to the affected areas was closed, debris was cleared and emergency measures were immediately implemented. A temporary staircase was subsequently constructed to restore safe public access to the beach wherever possible, while the damaged section of the promenade remained closed.

“We made a commitment to not simply repair the damage, but to address the underlying structural issues and improve the infrastructure for the long term. Investigations carried out following the storm established that the retaining wall had been constructed directly on a layer of sand extending to a depth of approximately 12 metres. This was a significant factor in the failure of the structure during the storm. For this reason, the reconstruction is being carried out on substantially stronger foundations," stated Minister Attard.

The first phase of the project began with the reconstruction of the stormwater outlet, which carries water from the valley towards the sea. This was followed by piling works along the approximately 45-metre section of the promenade that had collapsed.

The new foundation system incorporates piles extending to a depth of approximately 15 metres below ground level. These pass through the sandy layer and reach the solid rock beneath, providing a considerably more robust structural foundation.

However, the project extends beyond the initial 45-metre section. Works will now continue along the remaining section of the promenade on the opposite side of the bay. The same engineering principles will be applied, including deep foundations, reinforced retaining walls and the reconstruction of the promenade surface.

The third phase will focus on the two breakwaters located on either side of Rinella Bay, which also sustained damage during Storm Harry. These works will include improvements to the existing mooring systems, the replacement of concrete surfaces and underwater repairs in areas affected by erosion.

The final phase will comprise the completion and finishing works, including the reconstruction of the road alongside the promenade, improvements to the existing pedestrian route, the installation of new railings and lighting infrastructure, together with other associated finishing works.

Marsaskala: A Phased Approach to Regeneration

In Marsaskala, the approach is different, but the objective remains the same: to deliver infrastructure that enhances public spaces and improves the experience of residents and visitors who use them on a daily basis. The Marsaskala project is being implemented across three main sections.

In the first section, covering the area of Triq is-Salini, from the vicinity of the Lighthouse towards the site of the former Jerma Hotel, the works are now visibly taking shape, with preparations for the various services underway.

In the second section, the necessary services have already been completed, while the concrete beam and concrete flooring have also been installed. In the third section, the initial structural works have been completed, and the project has now progressed to more advanced stages of construction.

The phased approach is allowing the works to progress systematically, while ensuring that the necessary infrastructure is put in place as the regeneration of the area continues.

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