Resources and Infrastructure Minister Ninu Zammit yesterday said that the Merchant Street paving works are in their final phase and should be finished in the first week of December – three months ahead of schedule and just in time for Christmas shopping.

During an onsite visit, Mr Zammit said that the paving works began after the old paving was removed, new water mains were passed and old pipes replaced along with the installation of a new stormwater collection system.

The paving will cover a total area of about 8,000 square metres through Merchants Street, Archbishop Street, South Street, St John’s Street and the area around St. John’s co-cathedral.

Mr Zammit pointed out that the project did not simply involve paving but included restoration works, a new illumination system and installation of street lamps.

The project was launched last May but was stopped during the summer because of problems with the sourcing of the slabs.

Furthermore, added Mr Zammit, following the restoration of the facade of the Monte di Pieta’ and the Public Registry, restoration works were underway on the palace door at Merchants’ Street and the facade of the Public Library.