Seven American general contractors who are expected to submit formal bid proposals for the new American embassy building project in Malta earlier this month met with over 75 Maltese companies which are interested in offering their services as sub-contractors on the project.

An American general contractor will oversee the project with Maltese subcontractors providing much of the work, the American Embassy said in a statement yesterday.

During the pre-proposal bid conference, American and Maltese contractors had useful discussions which will lead to bilateral collaboration in the construction of the new embassy building.

Construction will begin once all approvals and permits are in place, the contract has been awarded and necessary materials are procured and delivered. The embassy should open 18-24 months after construction begins.

The new US embassy will be located at Ta’ Qali on the site of the former vote counting hall. It will in no way hinder the public’s enjoyment of or access to the National Park, the embassy said.

The embassy will be roughly the same size as the current building and will include an improved area for consular services. The majority of the site will be landscaped with indigenous Maltese trees and other greenery. The building itself will include many environmentally-friendly features such as a water-collection system and a screening system that will maximise daylight and decrease energy use.