For many, Il-Maċina is synonymous with the 1980s, when it was home to the Labour Party’s headquarters. But the Knights originally built the imposing structure in the Grand Harbour as a machine to lift masts from galleys.
Its historical relevance could be restored if a pending planning authority application for a pro-posed berthing facility along the Maċina Waterfront in Dockyard Creek goes through.
The applicant, Mario Camilleri, has proposed setting up a floating wooden pontoon connected to the quay by two bridges, anchored by sinkers at both ends.
It would provide landing stages for people to alight from boats and use the facilities inside the Maċina. The proposal also features three perpendicular berths to the south of the Maċina. Boats would be detached from the historic building by about five metres.
The only objection to the plan came from the Heritage Planning Unit, which said the building should be left free from structures – including the pontoon – as it “clutters” the Grade 1 scheduled fortifications.
The unit said the building’s traditional use was for removing and replacing galley masts.
“This means that the area was left clear except when the structure was being used for this purpose,” it said.
However, architect Edwin Mintoff – on Mr Camilleri’s behalf – showed an 1838 painting of Dockyard Creek by Charles de Brocktorff.
“Berthing of boats at the Maċina is historical – ships would constantly be berthed there to be serviced,” he said, adding they wanted a complementary development.
The planning officer recommended refusing the proposal because it would affect the visual settings of the bastions. But Judge Vanni Bonello, who is a member of the Mepa board, said the proposal was respecting the historical function of the building.
“We are not doing something against its nature. We’re not talking about a fun park or a petrol station,” he said.
He suggested there ought to be a proviso that neither cruise liners nor super yachts would berth in front of the building so as not to affect the view. The hearing has been postponed to December 20.
Il-Maċina over the years
From the early to mid-17th century, the lifting machine was originally made of strong hardwood, but in 1864 the British changed it to a modernised steel structure. In 1927 the machine was dismantled by the Admiralty in favour of a floating lift crane.
It was later used as storage space, the Admiralty’s Head Office, and as a trade school. From the 1970s to 1994 it was used as the Labour Party headquarters.
More recently it has been used as an exhibition space for special events.