Infrastructure Malta (IM) has initiated the initial phase of the project aimed at reconstructing the Buġibba breakwater, incorporating a new terminal that will provide enhanced safety measures for passengers.
This undertaking will bring reassurance to individuals who frequently visit the beach and to vessel owners within this vicinity. Furthermore, the sea-transport service will be expanded to include St. Paul’s Bay, in addition to the existing routes from Valletta, Sliema, and Cottonera.
This was announced by Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects, Aaron Farrugia, and IM CEO Ivan Falzon during an on-site visit.
The length of the breakwater will surpass 180 metres, surpassing the current one and providing enhanced protection against sea waves for fishing boats and other small vessels in the area and throughout the bay. The agency is actively implementing safer facilities for berthing, embarkation, and disembarkation of sea transport passengers.
Moreover, the reconstruction of the breakwater entails the inclusion of safer mooring platforms specifically designed for passenger ferries that utilise the existing structure for recreational trips during the summer season. At present, dredging of the existing breakwater foundations is underway, and numerous blocks are being positioned to form the primary structure of the breakwater. Simultaneously, extensive repairs are being conducted below the water level as sections of the old breakwater are being demolished.
Minister Aaron Farrugia explained that IM is also constructing a 37-metre jetty on the north side of the main breakwater. This pier will provide excellent shelter and safer berthing in various weather conditions, and the scale adjacent to the existing breakwater will also be rebuilt with a safer design.
“Through this project, we hope to provide peace of mind to those who frequent this area as well as a number of fishermen who berth their vessels in this area. It is encouraging to see more maritime infrastructure projects across the country. This is mainly because our country needs to have a solid maritime infrastructure as it depends on it as an island state,” concluded Minister Farrugia.
IM will eventually construct a terminal where passengers can seek shelter and purchase ferry tickets to Sliema, Valletta, or Cottonera. The new ferry mooring terminal will include ramps and other amenities to make this alternative mode of transportation accessible to all. Bicycle racks will be installed to encourage people to use alternative modes of transportation.
The reconstruction of this breakwater in Buġibba is the fourth maritime project being developed by Infrastructure Malta to provide alternative and safer facilities for passengers using this service.
Saint Paul’s Bay Local Council members were also present for this visit.
This project is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).