The Malta Tourism Authority, in collaboration with Team Blue Lagoon and Mizzi Studio, has announced an “holistic proposal” for the “ecological rehabilitation and enhanced visitor experience of Comino’s Blue Lagoon.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Ian Borg and architect Jonathan Mizzi, Director of Mizzi Studio, the internationally acclaimed architecture practice entrusted with this environmental transformation, announced this proposal in a press conference hosted by the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) and Team Blue Lagoon, on Tuesday morning.

They said that key proposed improvements include:

Removal of existing kiosks from the most prominent part of the Blue Lagoon shoreline, opening up space for a 200-metre scenic walkway with breathtaking views and enhanced accessibility.

Ecological restoration and protection of up to 35,000 square metres of garigue landscapes, protecting them with traditional rubble walls and other conservation measures.

Relocation of vessel operations away from the heart of the Blue Lagoon, with safer, more accessible docking areas away from the swimming zone.

Enlarging of the swimming zone by 5,600 square metres (20%), including some areas that have already been added this summer.

Repurposing the sites of existing buildings and other degraded areas to create low-lying structures for visitor information points, seating and relaxation areas, food and beverage and sanitation services, and an appropriate waste management site.

Planting of 840 square metres of green roofs to cover the new facilities.

Introduction of sustainable elements throughout the site, blending innovation and heritage, such as reconstituted and natural limestone, reed (qasab) and locally-engineered composite components.

Removal of 880 square metres of concrete surfaces and structures, including unsafe, irregularly built, landing platforms.

Reorganisation of the food and beverage offering to introduce locally-sourced produce, reusable cups and biodegradable packaging.

It was explained that the Blue Lagoon Rehabilitation proposal aims to “protect this site’s delicate ecosystems on land and at sea, heal ecological degradation from the past, safeguard it for future generations, and offer an educational and enriching visitor experience.”

In the coming weeks, the proposal will be presented to the planning and environmental authorities to launch the applicable permitting process, including public consultation and further evaluation by the relevant authorities.

The MTA said that over recent months, MTA, Team Blue Lagoon and Mizzi Studio have conducted stakeholder consultations with e-NGOs, public entities and business organisations, to shape the rehabilitation proposals announced on Tuesday.

They explained that Team Blue Lagoon was established ahead of summer to implement key operational improvements in the area. Through a new free booking system, visitor concentrations at peak hours were reduced by 68%. The Team also increased resources for cleaning and waste management, as well as enforcement, site monitoring, and safety on land and at sea. Data from the booking system, along with other operational outcomes will be reviewed to plan further improvements ahead of next summer.

Team Blue Lagoon’s efforts are supported by the Ministry for Gozo and Planning, Transport Malta, the Environment and Resources Authority, the Police, LESA, and the Civil Protection Department.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Ian Borg said, “these proposals demonstrate what can be achieved through collaboration and a shared determination to seek effective solutions to long-standing challenges. The holistic rehabilitation of the Blue Lagoon, along with the sensitive repurposing of existing spaces, is essential if we are to ensure a safer, more sustainable visitor experience, but most of all, to protect this natural gem for future generations.

“The proposals are the result of months of consultations – with national entities , e-NGOs, business organisations, visitors, and other stakeholders. This is why many of these stakeholders joined us today for the first public presentation of these solutions. We now look forward to the next phase of this effort, including formal public consultation, as part of the upcoming permitting process, with the support of the planning and environmental authorities.”

CEO of the Malta Tourism Authority, Mr Carlo Micallef said, “the Blue Lagoon is one of Malta’s most iconic natural attractions, beloved by locals and visitors alike. With this ambitious rehabilitation project, we are taking a decisive step towards safeguarding its natural beauty while ensuring a world-class visitor experience. Tourism is at its best when it respects and protects the environment, and this proposal reflects exactly that balance. By restoring Comino’s delicate ecosystems, creating safer and more accessible spaces, and introducing sustainable practices, we are not only improving the quality of today’s visits but also ensuring that future generations can enjoy this natural treasure. The Malta Tourism Authority is proud to lead this initiative together with our partners, as we continue to position Malta as a destination where sustainability and excellence in tourism go hand in hand.”

Director of Mizzi Studio, Architect Jonathan Mizzi, said. “the Blue Lagoon Rehabilitation is a holistic set of solutions to balance nature and experience. Measures to heal and protect our unique ecosystems, marine, terrestrial and birdlife whilst establishing boundaries for visitors. Through the reorganisation of facilities upon existing disturbed land whilst enriching the visitor experience. These are key site-sensitive steps that permit us to live in harmony with nature. ”

Photo: After Birdseye Caption Credit Copyright Mizzi Studio – CGIs Francis Ghersci.

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