The Naxxar windmill is to get a new lease of life through an EU investment of close to €700,000.

Naxxar Mayor Anne Marie Muscat Fenech Adami said the works were expected to commence between June and July this year and last for around 30 weeks.

The interventions will include development works on one of the largest windmills in Malta, including restoration works, structural works, audio-visual systems, and installation of two lifts to ensure accessibility to all.

Attempts to restore the tower to its original state and operation were made in 2002, but this could not continue due to lack of funds. Now, through the European Regional Development Fund, this project is expected to be completed next year.

Parliamentary Secretary for European Funds and Social Dialogue Aaron Farrugia said EU funds were being invested in historical sites like the Grandmaster’s Palace, the Manoel Theatre, and the MUZA museum, as well as historical sites, churches, artefacts, towers, and ithe windmills of Naxxar and Xewkija. 

Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government and Communities Silvio Parnis said local councils need a more active role in these projects, saying that they were helped in this through MEUSAC.

The EU International Affairs Unit, which is part of the Local Government Division, organises informative seminars throughout the year about EU programmes which local councils can apply for.

Aid given by the central government to local councils from the co-financing fund last year increased from 85% to 90%.

An EU fund officer will also be recruited by each regional committee to support local councils that benefit from EU funding programmes.