The forthcoming reconstruction of a historically significant rural footbridge in Wied il-Mgarr, Ghajnsielem, is to be financed by the Planning Authority.

The PA gave its approval to the project back in March 2023. The Council said at the time that it would not be reused as a footbridge.

This project will bring back to life the iconic arched bridge that once spanned the valley, facilitating essential local passage until its collapse in the 1950s, through finance from the PA’s Development Planning Fund, the Authority said.

The valley of Wied il-Mgarr, the largest of Ghajnsielem’s three valleys, stretches from the village’s eastern bounds to the shores of Mgarr harbour in Gozo.

The valley’s rich, fertile lands have been cultivated for generations, and the bridge once provided an important route across the valley for residents and farmers alike.Built from traditional Maltese Franka stone, the bridge’s graceful arch stood at approximately eight meters, serving as a prominent landmark and practical crossing point. Though only remnants of its structure remain today, historical photographs offer detailed references on its original form, which will guide the reconstruction with faithful accuracy.

Perit Ray Farrugia Chairperson of the Development Planning Fund said “the PA’s financial support towards the rebuilding of the historic footbridge in Wied il-Mgarr is a fitting example of our dedication to community-centred restoration.”

He added that, “by funding this project, we are not only reviving a lost architectural icon but also reconnecting G?ajnsielem to its roots, enhancing accessibility and promoting sustainable development. This bridge, once a vital link for the people of Ghajnsielem, will once again stand as a testament to the enduring legacy and shared heritage of the community.”

The Authority said that this initiative is part of a broader vision for the valley’s revitalisation. Alongside the bridge restoration, Eco-Gozo will undertake a valley cleaning initiative, complemented by infrastructure improvements for stormwater harvesting.

The bridge project is being carried out by the Ghajnsielem Local Council and Eco-Gozo.

For more information on the Development Planning Fund and to seek whether a project may benefit from this fund visit www.pa.org.mt

File photo: PA/Ghajnsielem Local Council

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