Rinella Bay, Grand Harbour’s only sandy beach, could get an extension to double its size, according to Transport Minister Joe Mizzi.

Marking the completion of embellishment works at the Kalkara bay, Mr Mizzi said he was awaiting a feasibility report on the proposed extension, which was expected in the coming weeks.

“Apparently it is quite possible. Experts have informed me that once a system is in place to stop sand from being reclaimed by the sea, works can begin,” Mr Mizzi said.

The beach extension will follow in the footsteps of Pretty Bay, Birżebbuġa, and St George’s Bay, in St Julian’s, which were reclaimed by spreading imported sand in 1989 and 2004 respectively.

“I frequented this bay all my life and I’ve never seen it this alive. Seeing people enjoy it is definitely satisfying. Hopefully, this work will give the area a new lease of life,” Mr Mizzi said.

The minister announced that other embellishment works were expected to be undertaken at the Bighi Rocks area to create another swimmer’s zone.

“We are even looking into having a pedestrian bridge connecting the two areas,” he said.

Mr Mizzi said the Rinella Bay embellishment works were part of an ongoing rehabilitation of the locality, which, a bather remarked, had been “abandoned” by previous administrations.

The embellishment, which cost €30,000, included new lighting, access for people with disabilities, benches and the repair of a wall that was damaged by pounding waves last year.

The minister said the project would include the island’s first sustainable public convenience facilities.

These will have photovoltaic panels and feature toilets filled with sea water while showers will make use of rainwater fed by a purpose-built well.

“This is an exciting proposition and another part of our commitment to increase sustainable public facilities.”