Xlendi before

One of the last boathouses in the once-picturesque Gozitan town of Xlendi has been knocked down, making way for a five-storey building housing a new iteration of existing restaurant, The Boathouse, and several residential apartments.

The demolition, depicted in a video sent to BusinessNow.mt, comes after the Malta Planning Authority approved the application to convert it into the new building.

These plan sparked fierce opposition from members of the public and local residents, and a parliamentary petition had been filed in a last-ditch effort to save what many had regarded as a cultural landmark.

“Malta is fast losing its culture, heritage and appeal to tourists and this approval is a step too far. The PA on this site MUST be revoked,” the petition argued. 

Announcing their closure for the impending “general refurbishment” last month, The Boathouse thanked its clientele for dining at the restaurant, and thanked staff for their contribution to the success story.

“We plan to welcome you back in the first part of 2022 in a brand new environment,” it said.

Featured Image:

Illustrative image: A largely intact Xlendi waterfront

Related

Experts’ advice for companies adopting AI: ‘Start small, scale fast’

April 17, 2026
by Nicole Zammit

A highly focused technology executive gives business leaders expert advice at IBM conference

BOV and Aviaserve showcase real-world tech transformation at IBM conference

April 17, 2026
by Nicole Zammit

Successful digital transformation depends on visibility, accountability and alignment with business objectives

IBM executives warn Maltese businesses: Scaling AI – not adopting it – is the real challenge

April 17, 2026
by Nicole Zammit

Speakers repeatedly stressed that AI adoption is no longer the differentiator – execution, integration and governance are