Nine councils will be benefiting from more than €300,000 from MEPA after their projects met the necessary criteria to receive funding through the Urban Development Fund.

The 11 projects, which are being fully funded by the authority, are specifically targeted at improving the quality of life for residents living in these localities.

The 'urban improvement' projects that are to receive funding include embellishment works in Mosta, Ta' Xbiex, Fgura, Mqabba and Qormi, the development of a recreational park in San Pawl il-Baħar and paving works around a number of streets and piazzas in Qrendi, Msida, Kalkara, Kirkop and Għargħur.

The councils of Siġġiewi, Żebbuġ (Gozo) and Luqa will all be carrying out separate projects to replace and install new street energy saving lighting in their respective localities. The Zabbar local council has acquired funds to ensure that the civil centre in its locality ensures access for all.

Since the fund was launched in 2006, the authority has successfully invested close to €8 million in over 185 projects.

The Urban Improvement Fund brings with it opportunities for towns and villages to invest in a more sustainable environment and improve the quality of life for residents while improving appearance.

The authority is currently studying new mechanisms to make the fund more efficient and transparent.

A proposal is for the Commuters Parking Payment Scheme to become part of the fund.