A call for public tenders issued recently by the Gozo Ministry through the Department of Contracts invites private companies and other organisations to submit proposals, in order that studies for a master plan for the Gozo Citadel may be carried out.

The master plan, co-financed through EEA financial mechanisms funds, will provide the basis for any future intervention relating to the conservation, preservation and management within the Citadel.

Gozo Minister Giovanna Debono, last year set up a working committee with representatives from various ministries and other government entities, for the terms of reference relative to this study to be drafted. During this period, various meetings were held with individuals and organisations having direct interest in the Citadel, in order to ensure constant consultation throughout the whole planning process and for their ideas to be included in the drafting of the terms of reference for the master plan.

The closing date for tenders to be submitted, is 28 February. A consultation process with all stakeholders and the public will be held during the course of the study.

A total of e300,000 (Lm129,000) has been allocated for this study, which is to address aspects relating to archaeology, conservation, flora and fauna, geo-technical issues, the use of existent resources and the establishment of new ones, touristic facilities and better management of the site.