CC INTERVIEW
Notte Bianca 2016 - Photo by Chris Mangion
“As a consequence of all this, I think we have shown the authorities and local Government that Valletta is earning her keep and that further investment into other aspects are now crucial. Logistics, for instance, need to be addressed and there is a lot to be done; we need to see how to ensure Valletta is practical for the people that live, visit and work in it everyday.” Parking, of course, is a major concern, but Mr Micallef is quick to quell worries that Valletta 2018 will present a repeat of the early days of the EU Presidency, when many of the city’s streets were completely cleared of cars, causing chaos. “I think we’re better prepared now; those involved have learnt from that experience, and I believe things will work a lot more smoothly for the rest of the Presidency, and Valletta 2018. “Then, further down the line, other elements will be introduced to further help with this, including the new 300-car car park in St James Ditch, which will be attractively obscured by a garden. Similarly, environmental decisions are also crucial for the medium- and long-term plan for Valletta, as well as constantly-improving maintenance
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projects to ensure the city’s upkeep. I am pleased to say that this aspect is well under control, and that there is now plenty of smooth coordination between the entities involved, all under the supervision of the Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation.” Now, at this stage in the process, Mr Micallef reiterates how enthused he is for Valletta – both in the 18 months to come and beyond. “The last three-to-four years have seen Valletta transform, and that will continue. Short-term we can look forward to a year of fantastic events both within the city and beyond its walls that will be enjoyed by a huge variety of people. “Further beyond that, Destination Valletta will continue to shine. Going beyond the €70 million that has already been invested by the Government alone, a further €30 million worth of European Regional Development Funds will be pumped into the lower part of Valletta for a large-scale project there. “Together, these short-, medium- and long-term investments all showcase our vision for the capital. It is one that will certainly guarantee exciting times for the city, and our country as a whole,” Mr Micallef concludes. cc
“By the end of this year there will be 21 boutique hotels operating in the city, all occupying properties that were previously derelict or in a bad state of repair.”
FEBRUARY / MARCH 2017