Another tassle of the government vision for the regeneration of the Grand Harbour is set to be put in place next week when the bridge connecting mainland to the northern arm of the Grand Harbour breakwater is put in place.
The bridge was destroyed in World War II when Italian E-boats attacked the Grand Harbour at night. They were repulsed and all but one destroyed but they hit the bridge. After the war, the remaining parts were removed so as not to pose any danger to passing yachts and boats. All that remained is the central pylon.
The bridge has been manufactured in Spain and brought to Malta in one piece, ready to be put in place.
The bridge, said a Transport Malta statement yesterday, will be placed in a rather complex and intricate operation. Due to the delicacy of the operation, TM yesterday informed the general public and all mariners that on the day, no vessel will be allowed to enter or exit both Marsamxett Harbour and the Grand Harbour except by special permission.
Deciding on the day will be subject to the weather conditions permitting the operation. The day will only be announced a day before.
TM explained that the temporary closure of the two harbours is necessary since the wake of vessels can hinder the safe execution of this operation which requires very good sea conditions.
The bridge will be transported by a vessel and lifted and positioned in place by the vessel’s derricks.
Once in place, the charted vertical clearance of the bridge will be nine metres from mean high water level.