Creek Flyover Project Is Planned To Completely Change Msida’s Landscape
The Msida Creek flyover project, which will not only change traffic flow but also significantly change the urban aesthetic, is on the brink of gaining approval this coming October.
The Planning Authority has scheduled its decision for the 12th of October, and the case officer seems to favor the project. Concurrently, Infrastructure Malta has released the tender for the project’s execution.
Initially proposed in 2019, the project was considerably overhauled in 2022 to incorporate more public areas. Notably, these additions include a 2,200 sq.m square before the parish church and a water canal, both designed to give the area a more communal and accessible feel.
While environmentalists praised the addition of public spaces, concerns remain about the flyover’s potential prioritization of car traffic over alternative travel methods.
Key Features of the Project
The major infrastructural changes encompass:
1. A bridge along the coast connecting Ta’ Xbiex and Pietà.
2. A bidirectional flyover, spanning 200 meters, linking Msida square with the Regional Road.
3. A landscaped car park.
4. A new square positioned before the parish church.
5. A water canal designed to mitigate flooding by directing runoff into the sea.
6. A floating net, meant to intercept urban litter from entering the sea, which will be regularly maintained.
Traffic flow is expected to be substantially improved. The flyover will facilitate consistent traffic flow in several directions without impeding other vehicular movements. Multiple dedicated lanes for distinct traffic sources and destinations have been integrated into the plan, ensuring smoother transitions and reducing the likelihood of congestion.
The undertaking will progress through three phases:
1. Phase 1: Construct the southern ramp of the flyover, carriageway between specific roads, and the bridge linking Ta’ Xbiex and Pieta.
2. Phase 2: Complete the northern ramp of the flyover, finish the carriageway, and finalize the bridge between Ta’ Xbiex and Pieta.
3. Phase 3: Focuses on the excavation and formation of the water channel. This stage involves a considerable shift in traffic management, using completed segments to divert traffic.
A Renewed Msida
The project promises a refreshed look for Msida, with the relocation of existing structures, including a bocci club and a kiosk. A new playground will replace the old, and multiple facilities will be added for recreational activities.
One of the highlights is the 1,300 sq.m ‘mobility hub’, essentially a two-tiered car park with a 110-car capacity, roofed with solar panels.
The 2,200 sq.m square before the Msida church aims to become a hub for community activities. This square will be free from any permanent fixtures, ensuring its versatility for various events and purposes.
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