The Gozo Aquatic Complex is finally open

Prime Minister Robert Abela and Gozo Minister Clint Camilleri officially opened the Gozo Aquatic Complex on Wednesday evening.

The project has been in the works for years, ever since the government announced it had signed an agreement for the so-called Gozo Natatorium project in 2016. It was initially meant to open in 2021.

Following a synchronised dancing routine, Prime Minister Abela said the new complex means Gozo can now host international sporting events. He added that this project will bring additional value to the island of Gozo.

Besides the Olympic-sized swimming pool, the pavilion also caters for multiple disciplines including basketball, volleyball, netball, badminton, handball, padel and squash. The complex also includes a dedicated hall for gymnastics, dance, table tennis and martial arts.

In his speech, Abela said the government is committed to investing in Gozo, pointing out that the Sports and Aquatic Pavilion is one of a series of projects “transforming” Gozo.

He said the government is preparing to launch a number of additional initiatives under the Urban Sustainable Development Fund, through which Gozo will benefit from an investment of €60 million.

“This means new green urban spaces, including an underground car park in the centre of Victoria and the extension of Villa Rundle Gardens (in Republic Street, Victoria),” he said.

Gozo Minister Clint Camilleri said the inauguration was a “historic” moment for the island.

“We are placing Gozo on the European map as a sports destination, offering state-of-the-art facilities built to international standards. For many years, this was only a promise on paper, but today it has become a reality thanks to the government that delivers on its commitments,” he said.

In May, Camilleri said the facility was already being put to use by Gozo’s water polo team, Otters.

The waterpolo team started trialling the facility to establish if it had any shortcomings, he had said.

Back then, Camilleri said the complex would open “in the summer”.