Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects Ian Borg and Parliamentary Secretary for European Funds Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi visited a property in Old Mint Street, Valletta, where the Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation is implementing works with an investment of around €1.2 million co-financed by EU funds. Also present for this visit were GHRC Chairman Anthony Agius Decelis, GHRC CEO Gino Cauchi and Foundation for Social Welfare Services CEO Alfred Grixti.

When the project is finished, the property will pass to the Foundation for Social Welfare Services to be used as social accommodation.

Minister Ian Borg said, “This is the legacy we want to leave behind – work that brings together our available resources to make a positive social impact. Whoever passes from Old Mint Street sees a building being restored and fixed up. We see a building that was abandoned, and to which we will give new life to bring about benefits with social ends. These 700 square metres will provide 16 beds in 8 apartments. We are committed to continue identifying more and more buildings and properties to give them better use. This is another example of infrastructural work that has a positive impact on the quality of life of people.”
Parliamentary Secretary Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi said that the regeneration of this building is part of a much larger project incorporating the entire regeneration of the southern part of Valletta with a total investment of €24 million in European funds. “This regeneration process is not only leading to the physical regeneration of the building, but it is also committed to having a social impact.” This development was carried out through a holistic urban regeneration plan which will deliver several benefits economically, environmentally due to the development being carried in a sustainable manner, as well as socially, with the needs of the people in the area given priority.

Works include the restoration of the facade, the addition of another storey and the removal of dangerous roofs and other structures. The building will be entirely accessible and a lift will be installed, while measures towards the efficient use of water and electricity have been taken. This work forms part of the Marsamxett regeneration project co-financed by EU funds.