Momentum has submitted a formal Freedom of Information (FOI) request to the Ministry for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works due to growing concern and a lack of clear information about the proposed Marsaskala regeneration project.

The move comes in response to the government’s continued secrecy over plans that will significantly affect both Marsaskala residents and the local environment. Although the project has been promoted as a “beautification” of the promenade, it also includes a fast ferry terminal and all associated infrastructure.

Through the FOI request, Momentum is seeking access to a wide range of documents, studies and detailed plans. Residents have the right to understand exactly what is proposed before irreversible decisions are made.

The FOI request includes questions on:

• Finances and funding: Total project cost, budget allocation between promenade upgrades and ferry infrastructure, and sources of funding (Maltese or European).

• Detailed plans: ‘To scale’ designs of the terminal, breakwater, renovated promenade, and any changes to existing jetties or slipways.

• Project justification: Studies supporting Marsaskala as the site for a fast ferry, specifically the area beneath the arches.

• Environmental impacts: Assessments of effects on the bay, marine species, air quality, noise, and the sensitive Il-Magħluq area.

• Social and traffic impacts: Analyses of the expected increase in people and traffic in the town centre.

• Alternatives: Evaluation of why a fast ferry is preferable to other options such as enhanced public transport, shuttle buses to the Bormla ferry, or safer bike lanes.