Prime Minister Robert Abela, together with Environment Minister Miriam Dalli inaugurated the regeneration of the entrance to Senglea and the restoration of Fort St Michael's bastions project.

A statement said that this project was led by the Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation (GHRC) and was divided into four phases, with a total expenditure of €4.5 million.

During these phases, various restoration works were carried out, including on the entrance and bastions of Fort St Michael, the iconic clock, the gardjola (watchtower), and the paving of Pjazza Mitrovich.

The staircase connecting the town square to the school side was also reconstructed, it said.

The project also included the creation of another small square for public use, and extensive works were also carried out on the structures that provide public access to the belvedere area.

Abela said that this project is one among a series of quality investment projects in the Cottonera region.

He said that the Malta 2025 Vision speaks of a country inspired by its historical heritage and driven by progress, promoting a strong quality of life for everyone. He said that Local Councils continue to play a central role in implementing such projects.

Abela said that government has created another open, modern space for the community at the entrance to Senglea.

He said this is a community-focused project in the Grand Harbour, which today, is a magnet for quality investment.

"We must experience it with a balance that favours sustainable development so that we can ensure the community enjoys the best possible quality of life," Abela said.

Minister Dalli said that another space was created for the public through this project, a space that she was convinced will come to life with activity, culture, and togetherness.

Dalli said that this is not an isolated project, as just a few steps away, government recently opened Kalkara Square, Villa Portelli Garden, the garden over the Glażiż, and the small Ziam garden.

"For government, the environment means a better quality of life, a more beautiful country, more accessible and fairer for everyone," Dalli said.

GHRC CEO Gino Cauchi said that GHRC is already planning other major projects that will begin in various localities in the near future.

He added that nothing is stopping them, as a corporation, from following up on the investments made in Kalkara, Senglea, and another project currently underway in Birgu, by carrying out more projects in the Cottonera area in the future.

During the implementation of this project, some rooms were also discovered and transformed into a daytime centre for the elderly.

This centre, managed by the Senglea Local Council, will also be used for exhibitions and other local social activities.

Senglea Mayor Clive Pulis also spoke during the inauguration, saying that he is greatly satisfied when he is with the elderly on the streets of Senglea and he witnesses the joy in their eyes because they can now once again enjoy this Fort and the wonderful view over the Grand Harbour from an extended and beautiful area.