A major project aimed at transforming Marsa’s main square into a vibrant, accessible public space that respects the area’s cultural heritage was officially launched by the Minister for the Environment and Energy, Miriam Dalli.
“We are restoring the heart of Marsa while improving the quality of life for its residents. This regeneration project is about revitalising a key community space, reflecting both its historical importance and its potential for the future. With a total investment of nearly €5 million, this project will create a safer, greener and more attractive urban environment,” said Minister Dalli.
Also present at the launch were the Chief Executive Officer of the Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation (GHRC), Gino Cauchi; the GHRC Chairman, Eng. Ryan Fava; members of the GHRC team; representatives from the Marsa Local Council; and various individuals involved in planning the project. The development is the result of extensive consultations with stakeholders and community representatives to ensure local needs and environmental goals were fully integrated into the design.
The regeneration work will be carried out in two phases and will focus on three key objectives: enhancing the square’s aesthetic appeal, reducing traffic congestion in the town centre, and creating improved public spaces. The intervention will cover a total area of 9,500 square metres and will include a new 650‑square‑metre plaza area in front of the Parish Church of the Holy Trinity. Vertical interventions will cover more than 1,000 square metres and will include restoration work.
The entire space will be transformed with new pedestrian pathways, ramps for accessibility, marked crossing points, and a dedicated bicycle lane—all designed to enhance mobility and safety. Utility infrastructure will also be upgraded, including new stormwater, drainage and drinking water systems, irrigation systems and telecommunications networks.
Special emphasis will be placed on greening and biodiversity, with the introduction of 330 square metres of landscaped areas and the planting of 32 new trees. These will include a variety of indigenous and Mediterranean species such as pine, oak, cypress, Judas trees, oleander and cedar.
New street lighting and architectural lighting will be installed to improve both functionality and atmosphere, particularly around the church, which will be a central feature of the renewed space. Security is also integrated into the design, with CCTV coverage throughout the square.
Construction will use high‑quality, durable materials including porphyry, lava stone, limestone and marble. Work is expected to begin towards the end of August.
GHRC Chief Executive Officer Gino Cauchi said, “This is another ambitious project for us. Just as past challenges did not deter the GHRC from completing landmark projects, so too will our commitment to the Marsa town centre ensure that this vision becomes reality. We appreciate the continuous cooperation from the Local Council and all stakeholders throughout the planning phase, and we call for ongoing collaboration as we move into implementation.”
Marsa Mayor Luke Farrugia added, “This project is more significant than one might imagine because when we speak of regeneration, we are giving new life to the locality and its residents as well as to other entities and stakeholders in the area. Thanks to the commitment of this Government, we will see this regeneration brought to fruition.”
