Work to double the capacity of the Valletta bus terminus will be completed by the end of September at a cost of €1.5 million, according to the Transport Ministry.

The project will consist of 14 new bus bays along St James Ditch to handle some 40 routes to be introduced by the end of the year.

Works include the embellishment of the area, including a canopy to offer shelter to commuters. The design also incorporates a new roundabout at the bottom of the ditch, replacing the building that housed the Grand Lottery. This building was demolished a few weeks ago.

The ministry said new bays were designed to improve safety for commuters, as vehicles will not be required to reverse since they will be parked parallel to the kerb. The circular movement enabled by the roundabout will also contribute to enhanced safety.

The work, which started a few days ago, is being carried out by Transport Malta in conjunction with the Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation.

Read more in Times of Malta.