The process of carrying out geotechnical studies for the project to build a new hospital in Gozo is underway at the Gozo General Hospital, the Ministry for Health and Active Ageing said in a statement on Friday.

Minister Jo Etienne Abela said that the Gozo General Hospital redevelopment project has reached an important milestone with the start of geotechnical studies on the site. He continued that these studies are a critical component of the master planning process, and provide essential technical information to guide the design and construction phases of the project.

The Minister said that as part of the project, the new hospital will have a modern building for acute care, a facility dedicated to rehabilitation, and a larger car park. He added that the phased approach to construction will ensure the continuity of essential medical services throughout the development. Abela commented that this project aims to position the Gozo General Hospital as a hub for healthcare which meets the needs of the community and visitors alike.

Engineer James Grima said that the physical and mechanical properties of the soil and rocks will be assessed through geotechnical investigations. He added that the same survey also offers insight into the ground's stability and load-bearing capacity, as well as potential environmental considerations. He said that such information will inform the structural design of the new facilities, therefore ensuring the safety, durability, and efficiency of the planned hospital building.