Mixed reaction to proposal for Marsalforn breakwaters

A proposed dual breakwater system to shelter Marsalforn from rough seas has been received with mixed feelings amid concerns that the project would turn the popular bathing spot into a port or perhaps a yacht marina.  Unveiled by the Gozo Ministry last Saturday in a news conference to which media was not invited, the fresh plans supersede those presented in 2011, which had never materialised. Under the new proposal, the entire mouth of the bay will be enclosed by two breakwaters with a small gap in between, which will become the only access to the outer sea.  The design incorporates the reconstruction of the Santa Maria Point breakwater on the Qbajjar side over a span of 200 metres, and the construction of another arm, jutting out 170 metres on the Għar Qawqla side. However, in a statement the ministry pointed out that prior to submitting a development application, further scientific and environmental studies were being commissioned. The project forms part of a master plan for the embellishment of the seafront. While the announcement – made just days after the seas had once again caused havoc along the seafront – was welcomed, a series of artist’s impressions of the project...