Could the Gozo tunnel works add further damage to the Red Tower?

Conservation experts have raised concerns that excavation works for the planned Malta-Gozo tunnel could impact the historic Red Tower in Mellieħa. Government plans for a 13-kilometre-long tunnel between Manikata and Nadur would run directly below the 17th-century tower, now being restored by Din l-Art Ħelwa. Architect Edward Said, part of the restoration team, told the Times of Malta the area surrounding the tower was historically known to be afflicted by geological problems. These issues, he said, were evidenced by cracks in the tower’s structure, which had been repaired several times over the years and which were being monitored. “As a conservation architect, I am very concerned about the prospect of excavation beneath the tower,” Mr Said admitted. “At this stage, we don’t know how far beneath the tunnel it will be but this is a consideration that must be addressed as part of the project. Similarly, there should be an appraisal of other historic structures that may be afflicted by the same phenomenon.” Din l-Art Ħelwa’s outgoing president, Maria Grazia Cassar, said the organisation was concerned about the lack of information on key aspects of the project, even as the...