The works on a new breakwater and ferry landing site in Buġibba are now half finished, the government said as three ministers visited the works on Thursday.

The Buġibba Ferry Landing Site, part of the SMITHS (Sustainable Multi Intermodal Transport Hubs across Malta) project is being updated with modern infrastructure including a new breakwater, slipway, pontoon, waiting areas, gangways and fenders, amongst other amenities.

This project is intended to better accessibility and viability of a maritime alternative to transport on land, the government said.

It is also planned to decrease land traffic, and so help in reducing emissions, as well as significantly increase the quality of life of the beneficiaries, it added.

This project cost a total of €4.2 million and was partially was funded by the European Fund for Regional Development, which covered €2.8 million of the total cost.

In a visit to the site on Thursday, Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne emphasised the importance of the project with regards to creating a positive environmental impact by contributing to better air quality, and so, public health. “The environment and all measures in favour of it are a priority for the Maltese government as well as the EU. So, projects that safeguard the environment and improve air quality qualify for European funding.”

Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works, Chris Bonett explained how the investment in maritime infrastructure such as breakwaters are crucial for water transport in Malta. He said it will not only help commuting Maltese but also the influx of tourists that come to the area. 

Bonett said, “The structures have a crucial role in facilitating maritime public transport as there is currently in use in Cottonera, Sliema and Valletta. Apart from that, such investments help coastal communities in their daily lives” He added that fishermen can also make use of the sea infrastructure which offers resilience to environmental challenges and ensures that development is done in a sustainable manner.

Government’s upholding of the SMITHS project which also promotes walkways, cycling and the improvement of the public transport system is proof of its continual work for a cleaner, more sustainable country, it said.