A building currently under the responsibility of the Lands Authority has been transferred to the Ħal Għaxaq Local Council, in full cooperation with the Housing Authority, for a five-year tenancy period. The aim is to develop this building to serve as the Council’s new hall.
Several courses and services for the community are expected to be offered in this hall, including the facility for the public to pay bills without having to go to Żejtun, as well as a dedicated space for the elderly, among other initiatives. This place is located at number 1, Labour Avenue, Ħal Għaxaq, and has an area of just over 75 square metres.
Minister for Culture, Lands and Local Government, Owen Bonnici, said that this project is another testament of the Government’s trust in Local Councils. He explained that this transfer is being carried out through joint work between the Lands Authority and the Housing Authority, to provide a building to the Local Council for the benefit of the residents.
Through this transfer, Ħal Għaxaq Local Council will eventually have a larger, better and more accessible space to work in for the benefit of families and residents of the locality. “The Government remains committed to strengthening and supporting local councils to carry out their work in favour of families and residents. The allocation of this new space as council offices is clear proof of this commitment, which improves services, strengthens community presence, and offers a more adequate and accessible environment for all, while continuing to build stronger and more inclusive communities for the benefit of all,” said Dr Bonnici.
Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue and Accommodation, Andy Ellul, explained how this decision will benefit the residents of Ħal Għaxaq. This is because there will now be a centre providing facilities and services that residents previously had to travel out of the village to access.
Dr Ellul explained that this is a clear indication of the Government’s commitment to supporting and investing in communities. “With this decision, the Local Council will be in a better position to continue its work for families and residents, as this will improve services and strengthen its presence in the community.”
The Mayor of Ħal Għaxaq Local Council, Karl Boxall, welcomed the news and highlighted how much this project will benefit the community. He explained that this place will provide an additional space where residents can meet, attend activities and enjoy greater comfort, with direct benefits for all residents of Ħal Għaxaq.
The transfer was signed by the Chief Executive of the Lands Authority, Robert Vella; the Housing Authority’s Chief Officer, Romina Fenech; Karl Boxall, Mayor of the Ħal Għaxaq Local Council; and Executive Secretary Fiona Cutajar.