The Malta Tourism Authority (MTA), Team Blue Lagoon, and Mizzi Studio said Saturday they have submitted a planning application for the Blue Lagoon Rehabilitation, a national initiative aimed at restoring ecological balance while enhancing the visitor experience at Comino's iconic Blue Lagoon. This marks a significant milestone in safeguarding one of Malta's most cherished natural landmarks within the Natura 2000 network, a statement said.
The project seeks to combine environmental restoration with thoughtful design that supports sustainable tourism, accessibility, and conservation. Following the application submission, the proposal will progress through the full planning process, involving continued consultations with the Environment and Resources Authority, the Planning Authority, and other relevant stakeholders.
The MTA, Team Blue Lagoon, and Mizzi Studio said they are working closely with environmental experts to ensure the highest ecological integrity throughout the design, permitting, and implementation phases. They will also maintain transparent communication with NGOs, local stakeholders, and community representatives to ensure that the rehabilitation process remains open and collaborative.
Building on the positive public response following the launch of the proposals last month, the partners reaffirm their commitment to delivering a sensitive, holistic, and collaborative rehabilitation that sets a new benchmark for sustainable tourism and nature-led design in Malta.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Ian Borg, welcomed the submission, describing the rehabilitation as the result of an extensive outreach effort involving national entities, environmental NGOs, business associations, and citizens who value the Blue Lagoon. He emphasized the collective nature of the initiative and the importance of maintaining momentum to realize this "visionary rehabilitation" as soon as possible.
Carlo Micallef, CEO of the Malta Tourism Authority, stated that the project not only safeguards the area's ecological integrity but also establishes a higher standard for sustainable tourism across the Maltese Islands. He highlighted that the initiative reflects a strong collaboration between public authorities, design experts, and local stakeholders, representing a shared vision for a tourism industry that is both responsible and resilient.
The Blue Lagoon Rehabilitation-titled "Balancing Nature and Experience"-is a comprehensive proposal designed to ensure the long-term sustainability of Comino's Blue Lagoon. It integrates ecological restoration with the transformation of degraded areas into site-sensitive facilities that improve safety, accessibility, and visitor enjoyment. The plan includes removing existing kiosks from the main shoreline to create a 200-metre scenic walkway offering improved accessibility and unobstructed views. Approximately 35,000 square metres of garigue landscape will be restored and protected through traditional rubble walls and conservation measures. Vessel operations will be relocated to safer, more accessible docking areas away from the main swimming zone, which will be expanded by 5,600 square metres, or 20%.
Degraded sites will be repurposed to accommodate low-lying structures housing visitor information points, seating areas, food and beverage facilities, sanitation services, and waste management systems. Around 840 square metres of green roofs will be planted over new facilities. The project will also integrate sustainable materials and methods, such as natural limestone, reed, and locally engineered composites. In addition, 880 square metres of concrete surfaces and irregular landing platforms will be removed, while the restructured food and beverage offering will focus on locally sourced produce, reusable cups, and biodegradable packaging.
This initiative represents a major step forward in protecting Malta's natural heritage while promoting a model of tourism that harmonizes environmental stewardship with exceptional visitor experiences.
Photo: Mizzi Studio