The parish of Paola announced Saturday that the restoration of the Basilica of Christ the King belfry and portico in Paola will go ahead thanks to a substantial grant from the government.

Parish priest Fr Marc André Camilleri said that following meetings with ministers Byron Camilleri and Owen Bonnici, it was agreed that the government would commit €400,000 to the project.

The parish priest said that since funds have been secured, the parish church will make use of the portico as a viewing platform for visitors and as a location for events and other fundraising activities. Meanwhile, a planned cafeteria will be located at ground level.

Fr Camilleri said: “This agreement is a win-win. The parish secures its objective of restoring the portico while visitors will get to enjoy the spectacular view from the roof. While the cafeteria will be located at ground level, we have achieved our overarching aim to make the maintenance of the church more sustainable”.

The parish has already embarked upon restoration works and hopes to complete the project next year.