Grand Harbour regeneration project officially unveiled by Malta’s Prime Minister

The Grand Harbour regeneration project was officially unveiled this week by Malta’s Prime Minister Robert Abela at a launch event attended by Group Board Director Adrian Griffiths and Director Daniel Morgans.

During the launch, the Prime Minister set out his vision for a project to revive the Grand Harbour, celebrate its heritage, and create new opportunities, positioning the regeneration as a transformative investment in Malta’s long-term cultural and economic future.

He confirmed that the comprehensive regeneration masterplan is being developed by Chapman Taylor, drawing on the practice’s proven track record in delivering major waterfront and urban regeneration projects, including MediaCityUK in Manchester.

The next stage of the project will involve opening a public consultation period, followed by the masterplan's progression towards implementation.

The unveiled vision seeks to transform the Grand Harbour into a world-class waterfront destination that protects Malta’s rich heritage while driving sustainable growth, creating new employment opportunities and supporting year-round tourism.

Group Board Director Adrian Griffiths described the Grand Harbour as a world-class asset, unlike any other harbour he has worked on globally. He emphasised Malta’s strategic position in the Mediterranean and the visible layers of history embedded in the harbour. Griffiths said the project is guided by three core principles: heritage, revival and opportunity. “Our aim is to create a natural and respectful attachment to the harbour, embedding ourselves within Maltese culture,” he said.

The plan proposes opening up the waterfront to the public through new public spaces, including a people’s marina, curated markets, enhanced ferry connections and improved pedestrian access. The regeneration will be implemented in phases, with the former power station area identified as the first catalyst project. This phase will involve the reorganisation and relocation of certain vessels, as well as close collaboration with relevant entities.

Sustainability and longevity form a key part of the vision. Griffiths noted that Valletta is already one of the most sustainable cities, having stood the test of time for centuries. The challenge, he said, is to ensure that new interventions enhance durability and long-term value without compromising heritage.

The Grand Harbour Regeneration Project was officially unveiled this week, with Malta’s Prime Minister Robert Abela placing the scheme at the centre of his national address to Parliament. Describing it as one of his government’s defining legacies, the Prime Minister highlighted the project following the presentation of the 2026 Budget by Finance Minister Clyde Caruana.

Speaking with evident pride, Dr Abela set out his vision for a project that will “revive the Grand Harbour, celebrate heritage, and create opportunity,” positioning the regeneration as a transformative investment in Malta’s long-term cultural and economic future.

The Prime Minister confirmed that the comprehensive regeneration masterplan is being developed by Chapman Taylor, due to our track record of delivering major waterfront and urban regeneration projects including MediaCityUK in Manchester. 

“Together with Chapman Taylor, we are finalising the masterplan for the entire area,” Dr Abela said. “We will now open a consultation period, and then move forward to make it happen.”

The unveiled vision aims to transform the Grand Harbour into a world-class waterfront destination, safeguarding Malta’s rich heritage while promoting sustainable growth, new employment opportunities and year-round tourism.

Aligned with the government’s 2022 Manifesto, the regeneration seeks to position Malta as a high-end, vibrant and resilient island destination, carefully balancing preservation with progress.

“This is about giving new life to one of Malta’s most iconic areas,” Dr Abela concluded. “The Grand Harbour will stand as a symbol of heritage, opportunity and Malta’s future.”