National traffic control centre to be set up at TM offices

The Planning Authority Board yesterday approved a proposed development which seeks to establish a National Traffic Control Centre at the Transport Malta offices in Triq Sa Maison, Floriana.

The case officer had said that the proposal was considered to be acceptable since it would not deter from the cultural value of the adjacent façades, “and all alterations proposed are to be internal, while retaining an internal metal frame within the building. The proposal also includes the extension of an existing stairwell to the rear of the property which shall not affect the setback onto Triq Sa Maison, and this same extension shall be screened with the green belt along Triq Sa Maison.”

This full development application proposes the restoration of façades, internal alterations, refurbishment works, and installation of a security fence for the establishment of the National Traffic Control Centre at the Transport Malta offices. The project will also include offices, lecture rooms and a crisis management room.

On the façade, the proposal would see the removal of the existing entrance way and installation of a new façade and materials. It would also include the removal of an existing lift shaft on the façade, and the installation of a service screen. The proposal also includes the provision of a security fence at ground floor level and roof level.

The case officer said the site is a 19th century, three-storey building which “used to serve as a bakery back in the day. It is a three-storey-high building which had undergone some damage during WWII and thus was later partly reconstructed. A similarly designed building can be found adjacent to it and used to serve as a slaughter house in the early 19th century. Parts of the building are currently used as offices by Transport Malta; however some rooms are not in use.”

The physical plans have, however, been kept confidential for security reasons.