Restoration Scheme For Historic Buildings Extended To All Gozo Localities
The Restoration Scheme for Old Buildings in Urban Conservation Areas (UCA) has now been extended to cover all residential properties across the island of Gozo.
The announcement was made by Minister for Gozo and Planning Clint Camilleri and Minister for European Funds and the Implementation of the Electoral Programme Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, who said this marks the second phase of the scheme.
Minister Camilleri explained that the scheme was first launched earlier this year for the UCA in Victoria, Gozo.
He said the government had pledged to expand it further, and it will now include all residential properties within UCAs in every Gozitan locality. He added that the scheme will later be extended to similar areas in Malta.
The government has allocated €58 million to the Priority for Sustainable Urban Development initiative, reserved exclusively for Gozo.
From these EU funds, the Ministry for Gozo and Planning has secured €5 million for the restoration of properties in UCAs across the island, while the Planning Authority has allocated an additional €500,000 in national funds to cover the remaining localities.
Camilleri said that, just as EU funds had transformed Valletta, it was now Gozo’s turn to benefit from similar investment, particularly as the island seeks recognition as the European Capital of Culture 2031.
Minister Zrinzo Azzopardi said the scheme demonstrates how EU and national funds are being used effectively to deliver tangible benefits for local communities.
He said it forms part of the Sustainable Urban Development Strategy 2021–2027, which also focuses on social inclusion, mobility and green projects.
Eligible properties within UCAs may receive up to €15,000, while Grade 1 or Grade 2 scheduled properties may qualify for up to €25,000 for façade restoration works.
Minister Camilleri encouraged all property owners within Gozo’s UCAs who wish to restore their façades to apply through a warranted architect.
Once approved by the Planning Authority, restoration works may begin.
Applications and further information are available at https://pa.org.mt/built-heritage-restoration-scheme
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