The area known as Tal-Maghluq in Marsaxlokk will be regenerated through a €5 million project, it was announced on Monday.

The project aims to improve the area’s infrastructure and aesthetics, Tourism Minister Julia Farrugia Portelli and Infrastructure Minister Ian Borg said.

The project will be funded by the Tourism Ministry and will be overseen by the Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation. It is expected to be completed in 14 months.

Farrugia Portelli noted that over 1.2 million tourists visited the picturesque fishing village last year. This means that almost half of tourists who came to Malta visited Marsaxlokk.

This is one of a number of projects in the area, she said. These include a parking area that was developed recently and a new waterpolo pitch that will be built.

Minister Ian Borg said the area has been longing for regeneration for a number of years. The area is frequented by residents, business owners, fishermen. Works will not be superficial, he said, but will include the laying of new underground services. There will be adequate facilities for fishermen.

Borg mentioned other nearby projects, including the Qrejten breakwater and the planting of trees at the Birzebbuga family park. Zahra thanked the government for its help in extending the tourism sector and for the frontliners in every field.