The Labour Party's proposals for the regeneration of the Grand Harbour area are realistic and aim to make it a dynamic area, leader Alfred Sant insisted yesterday.

Speaking during a presentation to the major stakeholders on the proposals, Dr Sant said the party's regional development plan for the Grand Harbour area was a vital part of its strategy to boost economic growth in the country.

The plans cover Kalkara, Cottonera, Marsa, Floriana, Valletta, Pietà, Msida, Ta' Xbiex, Gżira and Sliema and include projects aimed for completion by 2020.

Labour is proposing to eliminate traffic congestion and parking problems by making better use of the sea. Dr Sant said the plan highlighted the need to make better use of sea transport, using a ferry system that would link the eastern harbour area to the west, as this would reduce traffic congestion in the area.

The Labour leader said the plan also included a proposal for the setting up of an authority for the Grand Harbour area, which would have its own budget and be responsible for the implementation and administration of proposed projects.

"Whatever we are proposing, we will implement with careful planning," Dr Sant told the stakeholders.

The plan includes 100 projects aimed at regenerating the Grand Harbour and Marsamxett Harbour areas into centres of entertainment, as well as commercial, industrial and residential zones.