Mġarr Harbour task force set up to discuss infrastructural improvements
Team holds first meeting as part of strategy to strengthen connectivity between Malta and Gozo
A task force that will look into infrastructural improvements to the Mġarr Harbour has met for the first time.
The team will be led by the Gozo Regional Development Authority, and will include members of the Gozo Business Chamber, the Gozo Tourism Association, Transport Malta, Infrastructure Malta, Environment and Resources Authority, Gozo Channel, the planning authority and the Għajnsielem local council.
The government recently said it had a strategy to strengthen connectivity between the two islands. This includes the addition of two newly commissioned passenger ferries that will be in place in 2029.
The strategy includes the setting up of a task force that will assess the current situation of the Mġarr harbour and provide feedback for a sustainable, long-term operation of the port.
The team will, among others, draw up an evaluation of the port's impact on Gozo's society and economy, explore alternative roads that lead to the embarkation point and analyse the socioeconomic and environmental impact of its recommendations.
Gozo Minister Clint Camilleri told the task force's first meeting that Gozo had seen unprecedented economic growth over 10 years and an increased number of visitors.
He said the Mġarr harbour had become among the busiest maritime ports in Europe, operating 24 hours a day.
Transport Minister Chris Bonett, meanwhile, noted that links to Gozo will double in the near future, as a new route from Buġibba and another one from Sliema will join those from Ċirkewwa and Valletta.