The construction of a new terminal for ferries between Malta to Gozo is helping to promote tourism and increase cargo traffic, which bring benefits for the islands’ economy.
- 22 November 2013
These facilities have been designed to improve access to all and to provide a positive travel experience for travellers between Malta and Gozo. An improved inter-island transport network service with greater efficiency, safety and comfort will be an economic benefit to the whole community.
Ferries operate from the Ċirkewwa ferry terminal to the port of Mġarr on Gozo, handling approximately two million vehicles and four million passengers each year. In the summer, boat trips to the island of Comino also operate from the port of Ċirkewwa, as well as organised diving excursions. A key objective of a three-year project to construct a new terminal is to reduce the congestion and improve the transportation network within the Maltese islands. The modern terminal is also being designed to be as energy efficient as possible through the use of renewable energy sources, which make the most of Malta's climate.
Building modern, green infrastructure
Begun in 2010 the project includes the upgrading of existing quays and the addition of a third berth at the North quay alongside buildings, roadworks and other improvements.
The new facilities include a passenger-handling building together with elevated foot passenger gangways and flexible linkspans connecting to the ships. Vehicular marshalling areas, car parks, and a coach and public transport terminus are also being built. To reduce congestion at the port, access has also been improved through circulation and access roadways linked to the main road network.
The new terminal building itself has one of the largest installations of photovoltaic panels in Malta. A wind turbine is also being erected at the south side of the port. Through these installations, plus other energy saving measures, green energy will help meet the terminal's operating needs, substantially reducing its carbon footprint.
Encouraging commerce and improving access
The new infrastructure is resulting in an improved service for all traffic passing through the port (passengers and operators) and greater protection from adverse weather conditions.
The increased capacity of the new terminal is reducing journey times and increasing the amount of traffic between Ċirkewwa and Mġarr.
By improving access to the island of Gozo, the development is encouraging more tourists to visit the island, who are vital to its economy. Enhanced transport links are also helping to unlock business potential within the region and boosting the quality of life for both the inhabitants of Gozo and visitors.
Total investment and EU funding
Total investment for the project "Ċirkewwa Ferry Terminal" was EUR 10 867 996, with the EU's European Regional Development Fund contributing EUR 8 800 000. The project is funded through the Operational Programme “Investing in Competitiveness for a Better Quality of Life" for the 2007 to 2013 programming period.