Old Floriana power station to be restored, linked to cruise terminal

The Mepa Board has approved planning permission for the restoration of the old power station in Floriana and its use as part of the cruise passenger terminal.   The structure, beneath Crucifix Hill, now forms part of the Valletta Waterfront site and will be used as a baggage check-in facility for cruise passengers, office space and retail facilities. The old building is an amalgamation of a number of  buildings built over several periods. They used to include a  late 17th century arsenal and lime kiln, 18th century oil vats and grain stores and the power station which was last extended and repaired following war damage. Recent works have also exposed a battery wall to the immediate west of the site. The restoration works will ensure that all surviving features and existing fabric will be preserved and remain as a testament of the architectural evolution of the site. To establish symmetry, the missing clock tower will be reconstructed, Mepa said in a statement. All existing timer apertures which have been blocked up will be restored and reopened. The project will also include an external staircase which will provide easier pedestrian access for the public. This new access will...