A planning application has been filed to make certain alterations to the Cottonera Sports Complex.
According to the application, the alterations would include the demolition of the existing “boccidromo” and the construction of an indoor swimming pool.
Parliamentary Secretary for Sports Chris Agius had mentioned months ago that a number of projects were in the pipeline, and that this was one of them.
Speaking with this newsroom yesterday, Mr Agius said that Malta has only one national pool, and it is an outdoor pool. “Swimming and waterpolo teams have seen success over the past few years, and one of the complaints we receive is that their experience abroad was different as they were competing in indoor pools”.
“Training for these sports is year-round, and athletes would freeze when coming out of the pool. We conducted a number of studies to find the best location for the pool. Cottonera is a sports complex, with a main hall and the Boccidromo. “We noted that having the pool in the Boccidromo would see the least problems with a Planning Authority application, thus that is where we filed to have the extension. Naturally part of the Boccidromo will be used. When we receive the permit, we will begin work immediately,” he said.
He mentioned a number of other projects are in the pipeline, including restoring a building in Marsa, and finishing the construction of another also in Marsa, to use as multi-disciplinary halls.
Until those projects, as well as others are completed, he said that SportsMalta will also look at utilising school facilities for events which were held in the Boccidromo.