This is what makes up the new Qala Civic Centre: a local council office, the mayor’s office, a police station, a public library (with free internet service), a medical clinic, the civic hall, public toilets and a board room, all under one roof, and adjacent to the President Dr Anton Buttigieg primary school and to the newly EU-funded ITS Complex being built by the Gozo Ministry.

The entire complex is a masterpiece in maximising the utilisation of all the possible space available and creating a one-stop-shop in Qala. This is an excellent initiative that places Qala on the forefront of the concept of one-stop-shop local government. Other Gozitan local councils such as the Nadur one are following suit and a few other local councils are presently in the process of devolving or constructing premises. I encourage everyone to visit Qala Civic Centre and see for themselves what local government can come up with and why locals know best. A job well done!