€2 million restoration scheme opens for Gozo properties, including businesses in UCAs

A €2 million grant scheme aimed at supporting the restoration and conservation of properties in Gozo has been launched, with applications open for a limited one-week window.

The initiative forms part of the Planning Authority’s nationwide Irrestawra Darek u l-Villaġġ programme and is specifically targeted at properties located within Urban Conservation Areas (UCAs) across Reġjun Għawdex.

The scheme is open not only to homeowners but also to businesses and NGOs operating within these areas, potentially providing financial support for the upkeep and restoration of commercial premises in traditional village cores.

Eligible applicants may benefit from varying levels of funding depending on the type of property:

• Up to €15,000 for properties within UCAs
• Up to €50,000 for Grade 2 scheduled buildings
• Up to €100,000 for Grade 1 scheduled buildings

Executive Chairman of the Planning Authority Johann Buttigieg said earlier regional schemes attracted significant interest, outlining the scale of applications and funding allocated.

He noted that over 424 submissions were received for the Western Region, of which 408 qualified, with allocations exceeding €6.8 million. For the Southern Region, more than 370 submissions were received, with 355 qualifying for over €5.6 million in funding.

An additional scheme targeting Grade 1 and 2 properties outside UCAs attracted more than 99 applications, though only 14 qualified, accounting for over €1 million in allocated funds.

Mr Buttigieg added that unutilised funds from that scheme, amounting to around €500,000, have been redirected to Gozo, contributing to the €2 million allocation now being launched for the region.

The allocation of funds is based on the number of dwellings within UCAs in each region, with the Authority noting that previous regional calls in Malta were oversubscribed within days.

Applications opened on 25th March and will close on 1st April, with submissions assessed strictly on a first-come, first-served basis.

The process is divided into two phases. An initial expression of interest stage will verify eligibility, followed by a full application requiring detailed documentation such as site plans, cost estimates, and method statements.

Successful applicants will receive funding directly, with payment structures varying depending on the type of property. Standard UCA properties will receive a single payment, while scheduled buildings may receive funding in up to three instalments.

Projects must be completed within 48 months from approval, and beneficiaries are required to submit a commencement notice before works begin.

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