Speaking to journalists on site, Infrastructure and Resources Minister Ninu Zammit said the main targets for the project had been reached. It was finished by early summer and the total cost did not exceed its budget.

Mr Zammit said the project was carried out by Public Works Department employees and the Lm30,000 spent covered the materials as well as salaries.

However, the total cost of the project will reach Lm45,000, Lm15,000 of which will be spent to upgrade part of the road leading to the inner sandy beach, which is still under way. This is being done in conjunction with the Transport Authority (ADT). The roadworks are being carried out by private contractors.

The minister pointed out that the project was carried out to the highest standards possible. Wave-deflecting walls now surround the mall, making it possible for fishermen to throw their hooks from this side of the bay too.

The paving, which covers around 1,600 square metres, together with the railings, have given the bay a completely new look and have made it much safer for strollers. The beach was also extended since a small part of the sea was reclaimed.

Mr Zammit explained that the roads are being built to comply with international standards, and a water duct system is included since the area is prone to flooding.

The pathway for boat owners is being moved further towards the inner sandy beach since the new pavement does not allow easy access. He said that another phase of the project, starting next year, will see the embellishment stretch to the inner sandy beach at St Thomas Bay.

Mr Zammit also spoke about other projects being carried out by the ministry in the south of Malta, noting that the government is determined to give this part of the island the attention it is due. He said embellishment works are also being carried out in Safi, Cospicua and Xghajra.

Mr Zammit also spoke about the measures the government is taking to ensure that the public expenditure decreases and efficiency increases.

He said that since the ministry started opting for the services of Public Works employees and their equipment, a lot of money has been saved. Fifty Public Works employees have been allocated to carry out these works.

What these workers had to say, however, was that it is very difficult for them to work efficiently under the blazing heat. They said that such embellishment projects should be carried out during different times of the day, either starting at 4am or 4pm, so they can at least avoid the scorching heat.