[WATCH] Investigation into Mtarfa housing estate weak concrete 'still ongoing'

Investigation into Mtarfa housing estate still ongoing

Investigation into faulty structures at Binja Buqana, at the Mtarfa housing estate are still ongoing, social solidarity minister Michael Farrugia said.

Speaking after a press conference about the government’s various embellishment projects at housing estates across the island, Farrugia said that he would not be involved in the reports and investigations of the matter.

“I am aware that a number of interviews about the matter are currently underway, but I will be publishing the report as soon as it is in my possession,” Farrugia said.

Repair works on two blocks at the Binja Buqana housing project at Mtarfa, which will cost some €2.5 million, started after the buildings were found to be in need of urgent structural works as serious safety problems were being posed to residents and passers-by.

Consultants Arup had said they had found quality problems in pillars and concrete beams in two of the blocks, and Farrugia ordered an investigation after receiving information relating to the quality of the building.

The minister said complaints received included requests made to the Housing Authority in the past to examine the building.

A new inquiry led by retired judge Philip Sciberras is examining the circumstances that led to the dangerous situation, and the government will seek advice based on the outcome of the inquiry.

The inquiry will also determine whether contractors or architects commissioned by the Housing Authority had deceived the authority and whether the authority had been aware of the problems but failed to act.

The 80 units had been built by the Housing Authority between 1994 and 1996.

In some cases, areas of roof concrete had been prodded and pieces up to a metre had fallen. Other problems included beams which had not been properly covered with concrete and fallen victim to effects of humidity.