The Grand Harbour Revival Plan was officially launched on Thursday, marking the beginning of a national regeneration project aimed at restoring life, economic activity and public access across Malta’s most historically important harbour.
The plan has been put forward for public consultation.
The plan, led by The Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation (GHRC), sets out long-term vision to revitalise the Grand Harbour and surrounding communities, with a strong focus on heritage, sustainability and public enjoyment.
The announcement was made during a press conference attended by Prime Minister Robert Abela, Minister for Environment, Energy and Public Cleanliness Miriam Dalli, GHRC CEO Gino Cauchi, GHRC Chairman Ryan Fava, and Adrian Griffiths, Director at international architectural firm Chapman Taylor.
GHRC CEO Gino Cauchi explained that the regeneration of Floriana and the Grand Harbour has always been a central objective of the corporation. He said the harbour, particularly areas such as Marsa, holds immense historical significance but has suffered decline over many years due to changes in maritime activity. “This area has lost it attraction over time,” he said, adding that the plan seeks to unlock the harbour’s economic and touristic potential and bring it back to life for the community.
GHRC Chairman Ryan Fava highlighted the importance of respecting Malta’s heritage, particularly in sensitive areas such as the former power station zone. He said the project needed to complement the country’s historical identity rather than detract from it. Fava explained that one of the first steps taken was to ensure full alignment among stakeholders, including consultants, who were given a comprehensive understanding of the harbour through site visits, including a boat tour around the Grand Harbour. “This helped reinforce the importance of strengthening and enhancing this section of the harbour,” he said.
Adrian Griffiths of Chapman Taylor described the Grand Harbour as a world-class asset, unlike any other harbour he has worked on globally. He emphasised Malta’s strategic position in the Mediterranean and the visible layers of history embedded in the harbour. Griffiths said the project is guided by three core principles: heritage, revival and opportunity. “Our aim is to create a natural and respectful attachment to the harbour, embedding ourselves within Maltese culture,” he said.
The plan proposes opening up the waterfront to the public through new public spaces, including a people’s marina, curated markets, enhanced ferry connections and improved pedestrian access. The regeneration will be implemented in phases, with the former power station area identified as the first catalyst project. This phase will involve the reorganisation and relocation of certain vessels, as well as close collaboration with relevant entities.
Sustainability and longevity form a key part of the vision. Griffiths noted that Valletta is already one of the most sustainable cities, having stood the test of time for centuries. The challenge, he said, is to ensure that new interventions enhance durability and long-term value without compromising heritage.
Minister Miriam Dalli described the Grand Harbour as both a place of exceptional beauty and untapped potential. She said the government’s goal is to ensure that the harbour, from one end to the other, becomes a destination where people want to spend time, build memories and enjoy public spaces, while still functioning as a commercial port. She stressed that the project is not the initiative of a single ministry, but a national effort built on years of studies and planning.
Dalli announced the launch of a six-week public consultation, inviting feedback from communities, stakeholders and the wider public. She said amendments would be considered where necessary, as the project aims to serve both maritime purposes and public enjoyment. The long-term ambition, she added, is to create a five-star destination offering new jobs, creative opportunities, public spaces and places for people to live.
Prime Minister Robert Abela described the launch as the realisation of a vision that began several years ago, even during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. He recalled visiting the harbour and questioning whether such a significant area could be left in a state of neglect. “Today we are focusing on moving from vision to implementation,” he said.
Abela confirmed that once the consultation phase is completed, implementation will begin immediately. He reassured existing operators that no commercial activities would be eliminated, but rather strengthened and integrated. The Prime Minister said the regeneration would prioritise surrounding communities, particularly Marsa, improving quality of life and enhancing the environment while preserving the harbour’s status as one of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean.
The Grand Harbour Revival Plan is expected to unfold over the next 25 years, with authorities emphasising collaboration, national ownership and a shared commitment to transforming the harbour into a space that serves both present and future generations.
