The government’s commitment to embellish the country’s surroundings does not only refer to projects in urban areas, but also includes the embellishment of the country’s coast to be enjoyed by everyone, locals and tourists alike, said Resources and Infrastructure Minister Ninu Zammit yesterday.
Mr Zammit was speaking during a visit to Ta’ Xbiex to scrutinise work being carried out along the promenade linking the Blue Pearl restaurant and the garden in Gzira.
The minister explained that the work includes about 1,550 balustrades, which have been placed on a base that was built after work was carried out on a wall separating the promenade from the coast. The balustrades will not only serve as a boundary to the pedestrian area, but will also complement the surrounding landscape characterised by a view of the bastions, said Mr Zammit, adding that the workers have also started paving the promenade.
The promenade, which is about 500 metres long and covers an area of more than 2,000 square metres, will be embellished with decorative lighting that will complement the symmetrical paving. Garden furniture will include benches and waste bins that will be placed along the promenade.
The planning of the project included extensive consultation with the parties concerned, including the local council and the national commission for persons with a disability (KNPD). In fact the project also includes details that will make the promenade accessible to everyone.
Minister Zammit said the work is being carried out by government employees and financed by the central government. The project is estimated to cost about Lm150,000 (about E350,000) and is expected to be completed by next month.
Similar work that is being carried out on the Ghar id-Dud promenade is also at an advanced stage and should also be completed soon.
The minister stated that projects that are planned for the rest of the year include continuation of the belvedere linking Wied iz-Zurrieq and Hagar Qim, and the Xemxija promenade.
Another project in Xatt is-Sajjieda in Marsaxlokk is also planned. In fact, a call for expressions of interest in the provision of material for this project is expected to be issued in the coming days.
Reforms, better use of financial resources and investment in better machinery and tools are proving to be fruitful, said Mr Zammit.