Construction works at the new Institute of Tourism Studies in Qala are now in their final stages while a substantial part of the finishing works have already been completed. The building was one of the infrastructural projects for Gozo identified by the Gozo Ministry to benefit from the EU Structural Funds Programme for Malta 2004-2006.

Gozo Minister Giovanna Debono visited the new premises while works were in progress yesterday, the Department of Information said.

Seventy-five per cent of a total investment of e1.3m is being funded through the European Union’s European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Mrs Debono visited the newly-constructed training facility which lies on one floor and incorporates all the elements of a hotel together with the training facilities that are essential in such an educational institution. A large central courtyard leads to the main entrance, which will be equipped with a reception area that leads to spacious classrooms and an administration area.

Surrounding the central courtyard there are 10 bedrooms equipped with en suite facilities on one side, while on the opposite side there are the restaurant and bar facilities. The restaurant leads to the main kitchen and a state-of-the-art training kitchen that will include separate working stations for a number of students together with their instructor, complete with food storage space, a cold room and a separate linen store. The layout also projects for two water reservoirs, an electricity substation, laundry and bed linen storage facilities together with a lift and other facilities for persons with special needs.

This building replaces the previous Institute for Tourism Studies premises which had been used since 1989. The original plans of the newly-constructed training facility were amended so that the front portico would be retained. The first phase of works started in mid-March 2006 and included the demolition of the previous building, excavation works and construction of the new premises. Almost all construction works are ready, except for minor works related with the connection of the new block with the front portico.

The final phase will include the supply and installation of kitchen and IT equipment. Relative tenders for the supply, delivery, and installation of the kitchen equipment were issued last week.