Debate closed: Gozo-Malta tunnel project is happening, former MP says

The design of the tunnel and the plans for the approach roads will be out soon, according to former MP Franco Mercieca who is heading the committee steering the project

30 January 2019, 12:26pm
by Kurt Sansone

2 min read

Franco Mercieca is heading the committee that is steering the Gozo-Malta tunnel project

Franco Mercieca believes the debate on whether Gozo and Malta should be connected by a tunnel climaxed 10 years ago and the government is now at implementation stage.

The head of the committee steering the massive infrastructural project said the conceptual design of the tunnel and plans for the approach roads will be published soon.

“I can't understand why the debate on the tunnel is happening now because this reached a climax 10 years ago and the decision has now been taken. We are at implementation stage,” Mercieca said in an interview with Times Talk on Wednesday.

The former MP from Gozo said those opposing the project have suddenly realised that it is being implemented, insisting that support for the project was widespread. A MaltaToday survey last November found there was overwhelming support for the tunnel project across Malta and Gozo.

The tunnel project is a commitment included in the Labour Party’s electoral manifesto of 2017. The project also enjoys the backing of the Nationalist Party.

The project has raised concerns among environmentalists over the volume of excavation waste that will be created and the impact on virgin land at its entry points in both Malta and Gozo.

Mercieca defended the tunnel project, insisting it would improve the quality of life of Gozitans because they would be able to benefit from greater opportunities.

“Gozitans do not need favours, like has been the case until now… The tunnel will create a level playing field,” he said.

Mercieca explained that the tenders for the tunnel will be published later on this year and the selected bidder will design, build, maintain and operate the tunnel for the period of the concession.

He insisted the investment for the project will come from the private sector and the money will be recouped through tolls.

Mercieca gave no idea as to the payment that would be requested for crossing the channel via the new tunnel.

Kurt Sansone is Executive Editor of MaltaToday. He was formerly deputy editor of MaltaTod...