Task force set up to plan long-term future of Mġarr Harbour holds first meeting

The government has convened the first meeting of a task force entrusted with planning the future development of Mġarr Harbour in Gozo, recognising its strategic importance as the island’s sole maritime gateway.

The initiative was announced by the Minister for Gozo and Planning, Clint Camilleri, together with the Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works, Chris Bonett. The task force forms part of the Government’s broader vision to address present needs while investing in Gozo’s long-term sustainability.

Given the harbour’s central role in Gozo’s social and economic life, the task force will assess the current state of Mġarr Harbour and put forward recommendations aimed at ensuring sustainable operations, long-term resilience and possible strategic solutions for both the harbour and the island. The objective is to better accommodate continued growth in economic and tourist activity in the years ahead.

Minister Camilleri noted that unprecedented economic growth over the past decade, coupled with sustained increases in both domestic and inbound tourism, has led to a sharp rise in activity at Mġarr Harbour. He said the port has become one of the busiest maritime hubs in Europe in terms of vessel movements and passenger volumes. This growth, he added, is placing increasing pressure on the harbour and related infrastructure, particularly Triq ix-Xatt, which currently serves as the only road link between the port and the rest of the island. The task force, he said, will allow for consultation, informed decision-making and the eventual implementation of a clear plan for the future.

Mġarr Harbour provides round-the-clock connectivity between Gozo and Malta through multiple operators, including Gozo Channel Operations Ltd and Gozo Highspeed. This uninterrupted connection is essential for residents, visitors, economic activity, tourism, freight transport and emergency operations.

Minister Bonett said that Gozo’s connectivity is set to improve further, with fast ferry links expected to expand beyond Cirkewwa and Valletta to include Bugibba and Sliema. He stressed that improved connectivity must be matched by upgraded infrastructure within Gozo itself to support continued economic growth and ensure efficient links between the islands.

The task force will draw up a strategic plan for the optimal and sustainable use of Mġarr Harbour, including the possible expansion of facilities. Its work will involve assessing social, economic and environmental impacts, exploring alternative road connections between the harbour and Gozo’s arterial road network, and developing practical recommendations for long-term resilience.

Chaired by the Gozo Regional Development Authority, the task force includes representatives from key stakeholders, including business, tourism, transport, infrastructure, environmental authorities and the Għajnsielem Local Council.