Various emergency works have been lined up at Fort St Angelo, the Prime minister said today.

Replying to a parliamentary question by Labour MP Owen Bonnici, Dr Gonzi said a report on the required emergency works was drawn up in December 2008 and the relevant applications were than filed before Mepa. The 2010 budget provided funding of €1,500,000.

Last year, Heritage Malta restored some structures which were in immediate need of repair. Archaeological works were also carried out near the main gate ahead of the granting of a contract for restoration.

A contract was awarded for the demolition of the swimming pool and associated structures. The work started in May and is expected to cost €91,700.

Mepa twice issued a call for tenders for the restoration of the main gate, at a cost of some €100,000. Work, however, has been stalled while an appeal by a bidder is considered.

Related works will be carried out on the ramp (at a cost of some €60,000) and the area behind the gate (€190,000) which was demolished during the war.

That will be followed by works on the access to De Guiral Battery (€150,000) and conservation of the 'Salt Water Tower' (above the cavalier).

Once Mepa permits are issued, works will also continue on the restoration of the Polverista and the sick bay.

Dr Gonzi said Malta has also applied for ERDF funds of €16.8 million for the development of a 'Fort St Angelo Heritage Experience'. Preparatory work on the application cost €167,787.