The Triton fountain figures that were returned to their rightful place at the entrance of Valletta have now been installed in such a way that if restoration is necessary they will be taken out with ease.

Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Ian Borg this morning informed the press that the Triton’s plate will be placed back on the hands of the figures this afternoon, and the €4 million fountain restoration project is set to be complete by the end of the year.

The figures are back after seven months of “intensive” restoration at a foundry in Florence.

Addressing the press, Permanent Secretary Christopher Cutajar said “not only were the statues restored, but they were immersed in concrete, and now have been arranged in such a way that they can easily be removed if necessary.” Prior to the restoration, concrete held the figures to the ground, and has now been removed during these restoration works.

He added that the tunnel pump room has been built adjacent to the fountain, which includes ten new pumps and will allow water treatment.

The next step is to plan the water tests and lighting schemes and colours to suit a variety of types of weather conditions.  He added that the lighting schemes on the fountain will “compliment” the entrance to the city.

“We will ensure that the lighting compliments the lighting of Valletta’s entrance,” he said. 

Speaking to The Malta Independent, Project Manager Joe Scicluna said that the lighting scheme will include white light for the bronze figures. He added that light on the water will be able to be adjusted to different colours for feasts. 

Borg added that priority will also be given to “intensify work in the roads in Valletta which need upgrading,” in the run up towards Valletta 2018. “We never do enough for Valletta,” he stated.

The Fountain was built in 1959 and was designed by Vincent Apap.

The Infrastructure Ministry and the Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation are overseeing the works.