Europa Point to get a major facelift

(Agencies) Gibraltar Governmen announced yesterday that Europa Point is to be refurbished and converted into one of Gibraltar’s leading leisure facilities for the enjoyment of residents and tourists. (image) The project, which has been awarded to Sharrock Shand, is to begin this week andcompletion is expected in about 15 months. A Ministry of Enterprise, Development, Technology and Transport statement said, "The enormous potential of this area will be realised through the introduction of a new beautification scheme which fully integrates all users and provides a new range of facilities in a pleasant and attractive environment. The newly-landscaped zone will encourage a greater use of one of the most popular outdoor spots on the Rock.”  The proposals includes the following measures:>Demolition of existing buildings to allow for extended open area and exposure of views; removal of traffic from current asphalted area and development of this as pedestrian public promenades; creation of a new roundabout to limit vehicular traffic to eastern roadway only; formation of public pavement along east boundary; formation of public open car park with provision for small coaches and taxis; relocation of bus stop; new pedestrian avenue linking Nun’s Well and Europa Point areas; provision of extensive open air children’s playing areas and a ball playing enclosure; provision of extensive seating/picnic benches overlooking leisure promenades and play areas; provision of public toilets; provision of a cafeteria facility; provision of an area attendant/information office; beautification of the mound viewpoint and exposure of the underlying Harding’s Battery; new paving and street furniture throughout; and the introduction of indigenous landscaping.

This revised scheme for Europa Point includes the construction of a new restaurant facility with iconic architecture and panoramic views, said the spokesman adding that the Government will shortly be putting this aspect of the scheme out to tender, which will invite private sector investment in the building and operation of the facilities, said The Gibraltar Chronicle.

“The works are to be carried out with particular consideration for the historic sensitivity of the area. Materials, finishes and landscaping have been selected bearing in mind the weather conditions Europa Point sometime has to endure,” said the statement from the ministry.