Heritage and environment NGO Din l-Art Ħelwa has welcomed the renewed attention being given by the government to City Gate and the Opera House in Valletta, saying it was now awaiting renowned architect Renzo Piano's designs with interest.

DLĦ believes any designs put forward should be in consonance with their surroundings and take into account the size, scale and idiom of Valletta as a baroque historic city.

"This does not preclude a contemporary architectural style that is harmonious with the existing urban fabric," said the NGO. "The project should conform with the Venice Charter, which is not restrictive but sets the concept of sensitivity to the old while allowing the new."

DLĦ said any such development in such a sensitive area was bound to arouse passionate debate and differing opinions but it was time to take a decision and move forward.

The Chamber of Architects said it commends and supports the government's decision to proceed with the project and the choice of Mr Piano as architect. The chamber invited the government to also consider the status of the Guidelines for the Regeneration of Valletta Mr Piano drew up in his previous commission.

It said it believes the choice of Mr Piano falls within the expectations set by the high standards required within both a social and a cultural context for the project.

"Indeed, the choice must fall upon an architect who can provide the extraordinary design solutions the city of Valletta deserves," continued the chamber. "He has developed a reputation for being a master of the art of listening and is an excellent communicator of both process and intention.

"The decision here is not one about whether the selected architect should be Maltese or foreign," said the chamber. "On the other hand, this is about the search for that gesture that could leave a tangible and lasting impact on the quality of our built environment and to serve the aspirations of our nation."

But the chamber warned that several other challenges lay ahead, in particular the urban issues for what are an extended scope and site area and their intended use, presumably the subject of a development brief that is yet to be prepared.

"Furthermore, the need for structured public participation in the design process is evident."

The Malta Chamber of Commerce and Enterprise also welcomed the decision to proceed with the project.

"The project is six decades overdue. Malta's capital city lacked an entrance that befits its Unesco World Heritage status. The chamber now hopes this bold decision finally materialises and the project sees the light of day".

It said it is looking forward to a healthy debate with the participation of professionals and the business community to ensure the projects complement Valletta's identity while also projecting the city's vibrant commercial heart and Malta's dynamic image.