Infrastructure Malta (IM) has initiated the first phase of the project which will reconstruct the Bugibba breakwater, incorporating a new terminal which will provide enhanced safety measures for passengers, protection for the beach and vessels, and improved connectivity.

The project, which is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) will also see the expansion of the sea-transport service to include St Paul’s Bay, in addition to the existing routes from Valletta, Sliema, and Cottonera.

Transport Minister Aaron Farrugia and IM CEO Ivan Falzon announced the project on site, detailing the specifics of the project.

The length of the breakwater will surpass 180 metres, surpassing the current one and will provide enhanced protection against sea waves for fishing boats and other small vessels in the area and throughout the bay.

IM is also actively implementing safer facilities for berthing, embarkation, and disembarkation of sea transport passengers.

The reconstruction of the breakwater also entails the inclusion of safer mooring platforms specifically designed for passenger ferries that utilise the existing structure for recreational trips during the summer season.

At present, dredging of the existing breakwater foundations is underway, and numerous blocks are being positioned to form the primary structure of the breakwater.

Extensive repairs are also being conducted below the water level as sections of the old breakwater are being demolished.

Farrugia said that IM will also be constructing a 37-metre jetty on the north side of the main breakwater. This pier will provide shelter and safer berthing in various weather conditions, and the scale adjacent to the existing breakwater will also be rebuilt with a safer design, he said.

“Through this project, we hope to provide peace of mind to those who frequent this area as well as a number of fishermen who berth their vessels in this area. It is encouraging to see more maritime infrastructure projects across the country. This is mainly because our country needs to have a solid maritime infrastructure as it depends on it as an island state,” Farrugia said.

IM will eventually construct a terminal where passengers can seek shelter and purchase ferry tickets to Sliema, Valletta, or Cottonera.

The new ferry mooring terminal will include ramps and other amenities to make this alternative mode of transportation accessible to all. Bicycle racks will also be installed to encourage people to use alternative modes of transportation.

The reconstruction of the breakwater in Buġibba is the fourth maritime project being developed by IM, to provide alternative and safer facilities for passengers using this service.

Members of the St Paul’s Bay Local Council were also present for this visit.