Work has begun on the Ta’ Pinu road widening scheme, which will be one of the first projects undertaken in Gozo through co-financing from the Cohesion Fund programme for Malta 2007 — 2013. The reconstruction of this road is part of a larger project that also incorporates the improvements of the Xlendi Road. This project will mean the reconstruction of 2.5 kilometers of road, and is estimated to cost around € 9,480,000. The aim of this project is to improve accessibility to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu and Xlendi Bay, which are two major tourist attractions for the island

The construction of the Ta’ Pinu road will involve widening the road, rebuilding of walls, pavements and street furniture installed. Work on this road is proceeding well and is expected to be completed on time.

The Minister for Gozo, Giovanna Debono, visited the site to view the ongoing works. She expressed her satisfaction on how the work is progressing. She spoke about the importance of this project and explained how the arterial road that this is part of, is used by many Gozitans, Maltese and foreigners throughout the year visiting the Sanctuary of Ta’Pinu. She also stressed that work on this road will mean that the road infrastructure in Gozo will be further enhanced through funds acquired by Malta and Gozo through membership in the European Union. Minister Giovanna Debono added that this project is one of several which are being financed by the European funds that were promised by the Maltese Government for Gozo and through which the Ministry for Gozo will continue to work to improve the quality of life in Gozo.

This project is cofinanced by the Cohesion Fund of the European Union for the period 2007 – 2013, where 85% will be funded by the European Union, while the other 15% will be financed from national funds .