Momentum has filed a Freedom of Information (FOI) request with the Ministry for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works, citing growing concern over the government’s lack of transparency on the proposed Marsaskala regeneration project.
Momentum says that despite being promoted as a simple “promenade upgrade,” the project in fact involves the development of a fast ferry terminal – an addition they argue would heavily affect both daily life in Marsaskala and the ecological state of the bay. Momentum claims the public has been left in the dark about key details, prompting the decision to formally request documentation.
The issue has intensified further after the Labour-led Marsaskala local council voted down resolutions by Nationalist Party councillors calling for the publication of the Environmental and Archaeological Impact Assessments linked to the ferry terminal project. With the Environmental Resources Authority yet to release its reports, residents, ADPD, and Momentum continue to accuse the government of pushing the project forward without proper consultation or transparency.
Through the FOI, Momentum is seeking access to a series of studies, plans, and financial breakdowns. The request asks for:
• Project financing: Total allocated budget, distribution between promenade works and ferry infrastructure, and whether national or EU funds are being used.
• Detailed designs: Scaled architectural plans for the proposed terminal, breakwater, revamped promenade, and any alterations to jetties or slipways.
• Site justification: Studies explaining why Marsaskala – and specifically the area beneath the arches – was selected as the fast ferry location for the South.
• Environmental impact assessments: Reports on effects on marine life, water and air quality, noise levels, and the sensitive Il-Magħluq area.
• Social and traffic studies: Projections on visitor influx, congestion, and the impact on the town centre.
• Assessment of alternatives: Evidence comparing the ferry proposal to options such as improved bus services, a shuttle link to the Bormla ferry, or safe cycling routes.
Momentum spokesperson Mark Camilleri Gambin criticised the government’s continued secrecy, arguing that proceeding with major infrastructure in a residential bay without publicised studies is “irresponsible.” He added that residents deserve clear facts rather than “PR exercises and token public consultations.”
The FOI request also seeks information regarding the structural safety of the current promenade – particularly following earlier reports of subsidence – and requests the full methodology, questions, and results of a survey conducted by Prof. Vincent Marmara.
Momentum is urging the Ministry to comply with the Freedom of Information Act and publish the requested documentation within the legally required timeframe, insisting that transparency is a fundamental right for all citizens.
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