Public property passed on to three local councils

The government yesterday transferred three sites to the Msida, Fontana and Sta Luċija local councils through an agreement signed at the Home Affairs Ministry.

The transfer was in line with the government's aim for local administration to be more ­decentralised and autonomous and better cater for the needs of residents, the government said.

The process was important also because the properties could serve as an independent source of income for the councils, and the government felt they could make better use of them.

The Msida property is in Menqa Square and will be used as the council's administrative seat, also housing the health centre.

The government has agreed to extend the rent of the property to 15 years, allowing for the renewal for the same number of years thereafter.

The site in Triq Mulejja, Fontana consists of a playing field, two rooms and public toilets.

It is going to be developed into a civic centre, and the rent can be extended from three to 15 years.

In Sta Luċija, the playing field area in Triq Iris has been divided into two sites, which will incorporate a community centre and five-a-side football pitch.