The first gender-neutral public toilets are being set up in Paola as part of the project developing the village square.

A press release sent by the Parliamentary Secretariat for Local Government stated that such development works hand-in-hand with the government's policy.

"Other valuable work being done is the setting up of a public convenience with in a contemporary design which links to the design of the square," it read. "It will be the first gender neutral public convenience and, thus, complements the government's policy regarding this sector."

"There will also be 24-hour surveillance cameras fit at the public conveniences to ensure that the place remains safe," it said.

Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government and Communities Silvio Parnis today visited the work site and Paola square, viewing the work which is underway to develop the project of the village square.

According to the press release, Parnis said the project, which is a "collective desire of the residents, the business community, and all those who visit this location," is on track. He added that through this project, the village square will be given back to the residents and will be more accessible. The project is also intended to reduce the flow of unnecessary traffic and will therefore increase the pedestrian area. Indigenous trees are also being planted in the area.

Parnis said the project will also address the issue of parking, and available parking in the area will increase by 54%. It will also create direct pedestrian access to MCAST.