Restoration works are currently being carried out across various ecclesiastical sites in the Cottonera area, particularly in Cospicua, which continue to strengthen the area's historical and religious heritage, a government statement said.

Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government Alison Zerafa Civelli, together with the Chairman of the Cottonera Foundation Joe Mizzi, visited a number of restoration projects forming part of an ongoing programme aimed at conserving the historical and religious patrimony of the area.

Among the main projects is the restoration of the original titular painting of the Church of Saint Theresa in Cospicua, an artwork which suffered extensive damage during the Second World War after it had been removed from the church for protection.

The project aims to conserve and restore the painting's artistic and historical value. The total value of the project amounts to €44,674, with 75% financed through the Cottonera Foundation's Projects and Initiatives scheme and is expected to be completed by December 2026, the statement said.

The delegation also visited extensive restoration works at the Parish of the Immaculate Conception in Cospicua, which include the restoration of the 18th century wooden Baroque cathedral structure, the liturgical pulpit, the apertures of the Oratory of Our Lady of Sorrows, as well as eight "Via Matris" frames.

This project has a value of €62,540 and is also being financed at 75% by the Cottonera Foundation, with completion expected by March 2027.

Zerafa Civelli said that the projects demonstrate the government's commitment to preserving Cottonera's historical and religious heritage so that it can continue to be enjoyed by residents.

She said investment in conservation is also an investment in the community and in Malta's cultural identity.

Mizzi said the main aim of the Cottonera Foundation is to improve the quality of life of all residents living in the Cottonera area.

"We are working towards significant regeneration which includes better infrastructure while at the same time safeguarding and modernising the historical heritage of the area," Mizzi said.

The restoration projects reflect an ongoing commitment to ensure that Cottonera's cultural and religious heritage is protected, restored and sustainably passed on to future generations, the statement added.