‘Modernist’ bus shelters set for architectural value

But the Malta Environmental and Planning Authority has recently decided to include three bus shelters among 19 20th century buildings scheduled for their architectural value to be assessed.

These bus shelters - located in Marsa, Hamrun and Floriana - are considered to be a rare examples of local modernist architecture used in amenity services, a spokesperson for the Authority told MaltaToday.

The list of modernist buildings recently scheduled by MEPA includes a number of private villas, commercial, educational and religious buildings.

The commercial establishments scheduled by MEPA include Muscat Motors showroom in Gzira and the Farsons Brewery in B'Kara.

MEPA has also scheduled the Mount St Joseph retreat house in Mosta and the Kristu Rxoxt Church in Tarxien.

A number of University buildings - including Student's House and the chapel - have also been granted protection.

The scheduled private villas include Villa Ellul, Villa Sunshine and The Lodge in Ta' Xbiex and Villa Flora in Attard.

All these examples of modern architecture were granted Grade 2 protection, which safeguards all these buildings from demolition.

MEPA has also scheduled seven monuments in Valletta and Floriana.  These include the Tritons Fountain, which has now been granted the highest level of protection.

In April, MEPA had also granted the highest level of protection to 48 windmills and four granaries.