The go-ahead has been given to turn Valletta’s 16th century Fort St Elmo, parts of which lie derelict, into a restored attraction.

The planning authority yesterday approved a development brief for the fort, which is one of Malta’s most significant historic landmarks, and for the surrounding area, aimed at maximising its potential without compromising its unique historical value.

The brief, which was open for a two-week public consultation in January, will now be presented to the government for its approval.

It covers the fort, which occupies a strategic position at the tip of the Sceberras peninsula where the foundations of Valletta were laid, as well as the nearby British-built rooms knows as Carafa esplanade, the Evans Building, the examination centre and the surrounding ditch.

The aim is to restore and rehabilitate the area into a cultural and tourist attraction, which would generate economic activity for the lower part of Valletta.

The brief includes a heritage trail and the rebuilding of a physic garden which was used by the Knights to cultivate medicinal herbs for their hospital, the Sacra Infermeria.

The fort is earmarked to house a complex of museums, including the War Museum, with 2,500 square metres of exhibition space. The planning authority board also agreed to an environmental impact assessment being drawn up for any commercial developments related to Evans building, the Carafe esplanade and the examination centre.

In its time, the fort was crucial in safeguarding access to the Marsamxett and Grand harbours, playing an important role during the Great Siege of 1565 after which it was greatly expanded by the Knights.

However, parts of it have deteriorated greatly after years of exposure to the elements.

Now that the brief has been approved, a request for proposals will be issued to the private sector.