Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1534837
Architecture & Design | 29 I n a bold move to preserving Gozo's architectural heritage, the Minister for Gozo and Planning in collaboration with the Planning Authority has unveiled a new restoration scheme aimed at breathing new life into old buildings in Victoria. Backed by €5 million in funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) 2021–2027, this initiative is part of a broader vision to protect and enhance the island's cultural identity while fostering sustainable urban development. This new scheme zeroes in on the Urban Conservation Area (UCA) of Victoria and offers grants for the restoration of privately owned heritage dwellings, including Grade 1 and Grade 2 scheduled buildings. In doing so, it not only breathes new life into neglected facades but also contributes to economic revitalization, heritage research, public awareness, and a renewed demand for traditional skills and craftsmanship that risk fading into obscurity. The grant will provide up to €15,000 for traditional Heritage residences and up to €25,000 for scheduled Grade 1 or 2 properties. Eligible works include façade restoration and maintenance, non-abrasive cleaning, and traditional timber apertures, wrought iron, balconies. At the launch, Minister Clint Camilleri emphasized that "We are not just preserving walls; we're preserving memory, character, and the cultural fabric that binds our communities together. The regeneration of historic areas must be seen as a bridge between the past and a sustainable future." The Planning Authority will be administering the scheme, ensuring that restoration works adhere to conservation guidelines and permit conditions. This oversight guarantees that the integrity of the buildings—and the story they tell—is retained throughout the process. Prospective applicants can now submit their Expression of Interest through a simple online form, until 9th May 2025 at 13:00hrs. No technical documents or architectural plans are required at this stage, making the process accessible and straightforward. Forms can also be submitted in person at the Planning Authority's front desks in Gozo or Malta. Once submitted, applicants will receive a registration number by email. Full scheme guidelines and registration are available on the Planning Authority's website, www.pa.org.mt. A € 5 m i l l i o n r e s t o r a t i o n s c h e m e h a s b e e n l a u n c h e d t o r e v i v e G o z o ' s h i s t o r i c b u i l d i n g s i n V i c t o r i a , o f f e r i n g g r a n t s f o r h e r i t a g e p r o p e r t y r e s t o r a t i o n w h i l e s a f e g u a r d i n g t h e i s l a n d ' s a r c h i t e c t u r a l i d e n t i t y a n d s u p p o r t i n g t r a d i t i o n a l c r a f t s m a n s h i p . RESTORING THE HEART OF GOZO A €5 Million Push to Preserve Victoria's Heritage