City Gate will be demolished next month as the works on the Valletta entrance project proceed 'on time and on budget', Infrastructure Minister Austin Gatt said today.

Giving an overview of his ministry’s past three years, Dr Gatt said major infrastructural works are underway to upgrade and maintain a number of maritime assets including a €10 million refurbishment of the Marsaxlokk breakwater Dr Gatt said.

Dr Gatt said another €12 million will be spent on a new sea passenger terminal in Cirkewwa and €23 million of a major upgrade of the deep water quay in Marsa.

The press conference was held aboard a supply vessel that took journalists for a tour of the Marsaxlokk breakwater works.

Dr Gatt said that three projects in the Grand Harbour – the alignment of Lascaris Wharf and major developments along Barriera and Boiler wharves – would provide three new berths for big cruise liners. The three projects are expected to cost some €17 million.

The minister also spoke of the transport reform, which will be completed in July when British company Arriva starts operating the public transport service.

He said the service would be a quality leap forward and the fact that it was governed by a contract for the first time meant that government could penalise the company for any failings.

On Valletta, Dr Gatt said  work on a master plan for the regeneration of the Palace once Parliament moves out will soon be completed.