The €55 million investment will specifically aim to reduce waves in critical areas like the Barriera Wharf and major maritime points giving access to Vittoriosa, Kalkara and Rinella.

The project is being managed by Infrastructure Malta, which will be constructing a new breakwater as well as other underwater structures to protect the Grand Harbour from the elements.

Architect Janice Borg from Infrastructure Malta said that the plans are currently before the Planning Authority and the Environment Authority. She said that a 600-metre underwater breakwater is proposed to calm wave intensities from the North East and the East.

Additionally, a breakwater of about 100 metres off the existing St Elmo breakwater is proposed. This is to prevent storms and waves coming from the Northwest side.

“We also have revetments betonant in the area known Taħt iż-Żiemel which goes down to where there is the bell to reduce the reflection of the waves inside the harbour when waves come from the northeast side,” Borg told TVM News.

The Chief Executive of Infrastructure Malta, Steve Ellul, quantified the investment and said that the project is in line with the Malta National Transport Plan 2025.

During the announcement, Transport Minister Chris Bonett vowed to continue investing in the maritime sector.

“We will make the entrance to our Grand Harbour safer and we will be doing it to ensure that the entrance to the Harbour is better for all vessels and boats and yachts that need to enter our harbour,” Bonett said.

Bonett added that apart from the economic aspect and the protection this port offers for maritime activity, it’s the government’s duty to protect the cultural and natural heritage for which the Grand Harbour is internationally renowned.

Images via: TVM News

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