The Barrakka Gardens in Valletta were yesterday handed over to the heritage NGO Fondazzjoni Wirt Artna in "the biggest ever transfer of state property", with Grand Harbour providing a magnificent backdrop.

The Saluting Battery at the Barrakka Gardens, the nearby ditch, St Peter and St Paul counterguard and the tunnels beneath, including the Lascaris War Rooms, will be transformed into a multi-period heritage park.

Tunnels built during World War II and once used by Nato, some of which have never been opened to the public, will be given a new lease of life.

The project is the first in such an advanced stage of what is intended to be the regeneration of the harbour.

During the ceremony, Infrastructure Minister Austin Gatt and Parliamentary Secretary Jason Azzopardi handed over the 5,000 square metre property to fondazzjoni executive chairman, Mario Farrugia.

Speaking at the event, Mr Farrugia said the park will consist of five different attractions with themes directly linked to this part of Valletta.

The project, which will cost close to €1million, will be spread over three years. The first part will open this year.

The main aim of the project, Mr Farrugia said, is not only to restore the area but also to offer the public and visitors another top attraction.

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