Prime Minister Robert Abela and the Minister for Gozo Clint Camilleri have attended the laying of the foundation stone for the new Aquatic and Sports Centre in Gozo.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Government explained that this €16 million project will see the construction of an Olympic-sized swimming pool and a number of new facilities, including gymnastics, basketball, badminton, squash, wall climbing, acrobatics, weightlifting, aerobics, yoga, martial arts, as well as facilities where other indoor sports can be played.
In addition, it said that the sports centre will be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for all its users, including first aid rooms.
The Prime Minister expressed his satisfaction on the progress of the project, saying how for the first time, Gozo will have an aquatic and sports complex in the heart of the island.
Minister for Gozo Clint Camilleri described this project as being “crucial” for the field of sports in Gozo, as well as a major source of economic growth on this island.
He added that, “this is expected to create new niches and attract foreign and professional athletes and groups to Gozo.”
“Gozitan people will benefit from this project, as well as make it easier for Gozitan water polo athletes who currently have to cross to Malta every day to train,” he said.
The Minister went on to say that the laying of the foundation stone means that substantial work has already been carried out in terms of excavation, shoring of the site and the surrounding area, as well as all the foundations.
The structure of the complex, which is expected to be ready this summer, has now begun to take shape, Camilleri said.
Works on this centre, which is spread over an area about 5,000 square metres, are currently in an advanced stage of infrastructural work, and construction of the swimming pool.
Photos: DOI/Kevin Abela