The Msida Waterfront promenade is to be regenerated through a 1.6 million euro investment. This was announced at a media conference by Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects Minister Ian Borg and by Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation Chief Executive Gino Cauchi, during which it was explained that the work, expected to start on Monday, will see some 400 metres of the promenade modernised and embellished.

Minister Borg said that the project will create a balance between the renovation of the area and the movement of residents. The Minister added that no tree presently in place will be touched.

“We will be increasing space without reducing the width of the road for cars. We will be providing space for people to enjoy the promenade along this Msida walkway. This is an investment which will include a change in street furniture, lighting and the irrigation system,” Minister Borg added.

The Minister further stated that with the process for permits already in progress, and with tenders being issued in the coming weeks, work on this project will then start within a short time. Minister Borg also explained that the pavement will be widened and there will be a bicycle and scooter lane to ensure pedestrians on the pavement are not endangered.

Mr Cauchi said the project will not reduce access to those who tie up their boats along the promenade, and access to the area will remain open so that businesses in the area will not be negatively affected.

“This is a public space in use by hundreds on a daily basis. When we worked everything out, we saw that many people pass along this promenade, either on bicycles or on foot. We felt the time had come to complement this space with a regenerated area, and at the same time without reducing the facility for those who use it every day, like fishermen and vehicles.”

The Chief Executive said consultations on the project had been held with all stakeholders in order to find a balance between embellishment and access for users of the area. Cauchi added that the Corporation is presently working on a number of projects on which work is proceeding apace, mentioning among others projects in Kalkara, Senglea and also Marsaxlokk.