Protest over Dock 1 delays today

This morning, the Cospicua local council will be leading a protest over the long-delayed regeneration of the Dock 1 area as well as to raise awareness of other cases of neglect in the locality.

Dock 1 lies at the end of Dockyard Creek, which divides Senglea from Vittoriosa further up, and was the first dry dock in the harbour, having been completed in 1848. But it has been disused for years, with shipyard operations now centred on docks in nearby French Creek.

The area’s potential for regeneration has long been evident, particularly following the upgrading of the Vittoriosa waterfront.

But while a number of proposals were considered – including a public-private partnership – the actual regeneration was only announced in 2009, and a permit was only obtained the following year.

The plan forms part of a project that will also see the rehabilitation of Xatt ir-Riżq, and would see the Cospicua seafront integrated with the Gavino Gulia and Paolino Vassallo Squares. A bridge spanning its entrance is also planned and would reduce walking distances to and from Senglea.

The Cospicua local council was one of the project’s most enthusiastic supporters when it was announced, with mayor Joe Scerri expressing his endorsement during MEPA briefings and stressing how the council and residents alike had long been awaiting such a project.

But the council’s enthusiasm has been greatly dampened by what happened next.

The project was awarded to Marinelli Costruzioni SpA, as it tabled the cheapest bid. But the Italian company failed to stick to deadlines, and following lengthy delays, it was sacked by the government.

The company made a bank guarantee of €957,000, and the government is seeking its forfeiture. Over €380,000 have already been withdrawn by the government, but the contractor took court action in Italy to keep the remaining money.

As a result, the project’s deadline has been regularly moved forward, and the project is now not expected to be completed before the second half of 2013.

The delays have incensed the area’s residents, whose grievances include an increase in mosquito numbers brought about by stagnant waters.

The local council, therefore, is inviting all those concerned to join it in a peaceful protest march at 10am, starting at the St Theresa Church – which overlooks Xatt ir-Riżq – down to the Dock 1 Area. It is also organising a tour for journalists and for MPs of the second electoral district, in which councillors will point out areas that have been neglected.