E.U. structural funding for restoration works carried out on the "Cittadella" fortifications : alongside the socio-economic impacts on Gozo

Abstract

Structural funds were amongst the primary benefits that Malta achieved since becoming a member of the European Union in 2004. Through the availability of such grants, the Maltese Government was able to address various issues, including its infrastructure, such as the restoration of its key Heritage sites. Due to other social and national concerns, many historical sites were left unattended for a number of years, since successive Maltese governments gave first priority to other more urgent financial and social issues, owing to national budgetary constraints. The 'Cittadella,' Gozo's landmark fortress, was amongst such national heritage sites that urgently needed a major overhaul, both in relation to its surrounding fortifications and also in respect of its interior structures. The various projects undertaken in several phases were mainly co-financed through the principal EU Structural Funds, i.e. ERDF, ESF and the Cohesion Funds, with EEA funds co-financing the policy document of the 'Cittadella Masterplan'. The latter was the principal exercise that set the ball rolling towards the eventual execution of the numerous tasks involved to restore and embellish this ancient fortress. Although national infrastructural projects are usually undertaken for their incremental societal benefits rather than for real profits, it's visually improved exterior and interior infrastructure is anticipated to contribute towards promoting our island as a cultural and historical destination, together with its Mediterranean characteristics. Although at the moment, it is somewhat early to assess the level of the socio-economic impact of this project, since it is still underway, from the studies undertaken, the citizens frequenting the Citadel on E.U. Structural Funding for Restoration Works carried out on the "Cittadella" Fortifications - alongside the Socio-Economic impacts on Gozo : a daily basis are anticipating a positive level of socio-economic impact, on both Gozitan economy and society in general.