A new framework for sustainable infrastructure projects

The Community Projects Directorate is strengthening its commitment to improving Malta’s towns and villages through environmentally sustainable civil and infrastructural works. This builds on the success of the first framework agreement and paving the way for a new generation of community projects.

Local Government and Public Works Minister Alison Zerafa Civelli launched the second framework agreement with an allocated budget of €12.8 million.

The first framework agreement came into effect in June 2024. Over the following 24 months, the agreement supported an extensive programme of community projects aimed at enhancing public spaces and improving the everyday experience of communities across Malta.

Through this initiative, towns and villages benefited from new and upgraded public infrastructure, including community gardens, outdoor recreational areas, pedestrian zones, promenades, roads and essential services infrastructure. It also included minor projects that addressed the state of shabbiness in some zones. These interventions were designed not only to address local infrastructural needs, but also to create more attractive, accessible and functional spaces for residents, families and visitors.

At the heart of the framework agreement is a collaborative model that brings together government, local councils, non-governmental organisations, contractors and technical professionals.

Economic operators participate through a competitive public tendering process, with successful contractors entering into agreements with the directorate to plan and execute projects identified by local councils as well as initiatives originating from the ministry.

This approach allows local needs to be identified and translated into tangible projects on the ground, while ensuring that each intervention is properly planned, monitored and delivered. Furthermore, we ensure that the areas are accessible to everyone.

The Community Projects Directorate plays a central coordinating role throughout the process. Its team of architects, engineers, surveyors and other professional and technical personnel works closely with local councils and other stakeholders, providing the necessary technical oversight and ensuring compliance with established standards, contractual requirements and financial obligations.

This combination of local knowledge, professional expertise and effective project management enables the directorate to transform identified community priorities into practical improvements that can be enjoyed by residents.

Strong demand from local communities

The success of the first framework agreement was reflected in the strong demand from local councils. The response demonstrated the importance placed by local communities on investment in public spaces and infrastructure, while highlighting the continuing need for projects that respond directly to the realities and aspirations of individual localities.

The directorate is currently managing the adjudication process, which is planned to be finalised by the end of September. Once this process is concluded, the new framework agreement will provide the basis for another programme of community-focused interventions across Malta.

The next phase will continue to place communities at the centre of the directorate’s work. Whether through the regeneration of a public garden, the improvement of a pedestrian area, the upgrading of a promenade or the renewal of essential infrastructure, such projects can make a meaningful difference to residents’ daily lives.

The investment in community infrastructure is therefore about more than physical improvements. Well-designed and properly maintained public spaces can encourage people to spend more time outdoors, support community interaction, improve accessibility and contribute to healthier, more liveable neighbourhoods.

As the second framework agreement moves towards implementation, the Community Projects Directorate is renewing its commitment to working closely with communities and their representatives to ensure that investment reaches where it can have the greatest local impact.

With a continued focus on environmental sustainability, quality workmanship, accessibility and community needs, the directorate looks forward to delivering a new programme of projects that contribute to an improved quality of life for citizens throughout Malta.

The message is clear: Investing in our communities means investing in the future of Malta’s towns and villages.