The colonnade opposite the parliament building in Valletta is being cladded for decorative purposes as part of the city gate project by the Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation and Heritage Malta.

The work was taken in hand this morning. 

The colonnade is being upgraded to a design by architect William Bondin, selected after nine submissions were made to a call for applications.

The design is based on a hardstone cladding to be installed on the columns, having a smooth transition in intensity starting from the lateral columns and gradually increasing towards the central elements 

This represents the “bursting energy of Valletta and its people”, the GHRC explained.

The cladding will be back lighted.

"The installation is respectful towards the existing structure while still making a distinct artistic statement, providing a positive contribution to the urban fabric," GHRC said.

The installation is scheduled to be completed in a few weeks time.

Works at City Gate are proceeding at a fast pace ahead of Valletta becoming the European Capital of Culture in January.

The Tritons Fountain was successfully tested yesterday after a €4 million refurbishment which included installation of a new water and electricity system and rehabilitation of the Triton figures and the overlying plate.

The surrounding area, formerly the bus terminus, is being paved and will be pedestrianised.

The project had started with the demolition of City Gate and the narrowing of the bridge across the ditch. 

Picture: Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi/FacebookPicture: Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi/Facebook

 

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