The tendering process for the construction of a PBS studio theatre meant to be completed by the end of this year is still ongoing.
In January 2015, PBS Chairman Tonio Porthugese had stated that by the end of 2015, the broadcasting services will have a new studio theatre, which will start hosting TV Programmes. MEPA had provided the required permits to demolish Malex House in Gwardamangia to build the new theatre, after it said that the site has no cultural heritage value.
However, so far, apart from the demolishment of Malex House no progress has taken place.
In his long-awaited answer, Chief Executive Officer Anton Attard explained that the timeframes are to be revised because the tendering process for the construction of the premises is still ongoing. “Parts of the project have been referred back to the drawing board due to technological advances in the field, which necessitated certain updates with regard to technical matters. The project still features an important part of PBS’s future plans, but the timeframes which have been given are being revised, to make sure the project is completed to the highest possible standards,” he said.
The building was to be demolished last year and parts of the project, such as the studio, was to be completed by the first quarter of 2015. Works on the project, valued at €2 million, was to start in 2014 and was to incorporate 600m2 in studio, offices and parking facilities.
The project is meant to compliment the Creativity Hub, which was opened in 2012.