Total Santa Venera Bus Shelter Could Bring Cost ‘Close To €17,900’, But Not €20,000, Contractor Says
In response to recent concerns over the expense of a new bus shelter in Santa Venera, contractor George Vella has come forward to clarify the costs associated with the project.
Originally reported to have cost nearly €20,000, the contractor’s office told Lovin Malta that the actual expenses are actually lower.
Vella was awarded the tender on 31st October 2023 and his office was informed that the deadline for the project to be completed happened to be a week before the local council elections.
The project, initiated through a public tender process where George Vella was the sole bidder, involved comprehensive work detailed in the bill of quantities (BOQ) which listed seven key components, including day works essential for the completion of the project.
The tender document, numbered STVLC -29, outlines various stages of construction, each with its allocated costs including the initial preparations and health and safety. The bills included groundworks involving cutting through the pavement and concrete works.
Other expenses included the steelwork and membrane supply.
Vella’s office went on to share the breakdown of the BOQ with Lovin Malta:
- Bill No 1: Preliminaries – Included
- Bill No 2: Ground works – €750
- Bill No 3: Concrete Works – €2,560
- Bill No 4: Steel – €3,650
- Bill No 5: Sundry – €825
- Bill No 6: Specific Items – €6,320
- Bill No 7: Day works – €3,795
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The cost of the structure of the shelter, marked as specific items, was €6,320 and to date, Vella has documented €7,785 for the works completed which have yet to be invoiced to the local council.
The total cost of manpower, if accounting for day works, could bring the project close to €17,900 and not €20,000.
The first reported number of €19,872.50 was the estimated total value of the contract listed in the tender.
This clarification comes amidst ongoing discussions about public spending in local council projects and with it the contractor hopes this helps the public understand the complexities and costs involved in such urban development projects.
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