A 170-berth yacht marina and a 1.5km long promenade are at the heart of a masterplan for the regeneration of the Marsa menqa (creek) unveiled today by Infrastructure Minister Austin Gatt.

The minister said this was a major project to transform a site previously associated with heavy industry into an area for recreation and entertainment.

The project also involves landscaping and the restoration of buildings, including the old Chadwick stores, built by Lord Chadwick, which will be used for offices. The top floor will be reserved for entertainment owing to the building's prime position opposite the Grand Harbour fairway.

The masterplan was presented by Architect Marc Bonello, who said it also included a transport plan.

The minister said the area will benefit from an improved road from Marsa to the cruise liner terminal. It will also feature a landing place for ferries and water taxis, a stand for taxis and a bus terminus.

The project is expected to be taken in hand in 2011 and will cost some €130 million. It will eventually be extended to the site of the power station, once the power house is closed down.

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