The first phase of work to reconstruct the road between Mgarr and Ghajnsielem is expected to be completed by the end of February, Roads Minister Jesmond Mugliett said yesterday.

Mr Mugliett was speaking during a visit to Gozo?s main traffic artery, which is one of two projects that are being co-financed by the European Union.

Mr Mugliett added that this project was crucial to Gozo?s development plans.

"This project is part of the Ten-T network and links the port of Mgarr to the capital Victoria and continues through to the other end of the island, meaning that it is an important tool in developing Gozo?s tourism product," Mr Mugliett said.

The road will be 2.4 kilometres long and is being financed by the government of Malta and a 4 million Euro grant from the European Union?s cohesion fund.

Work currently underway includes an improvement of road design at the Xewkija heliport junction, widening of the carriageway and the construction of pavements. In addition, a 700 metre long culvert is being constructed to house all services whilst rubble walls are being constructed along the route.

Two new water mains, each four kilometres in length, are being laid. These will be accompanied by construction of storm water culverts and water collection chambers.

Once the first phase is complete, work will start to reconstruct the J.F. De Chambray road.

Gozo Minister Giovanna Debono said that this year was a very interesting one for the island because various projects had been completed, including the construction of various arterial roads.

She said the reconstruction of this road was only a link in the chain to complement the construction of a new terminal at Mgarr Harbour, the alterantive route between Ghajnsielem and Mgarr as well as the development of Zewwieqa Waterfront.

Mr Mugliett said the government was looking into the long term future of Gozo, especially in view of the transport network.