As part of a package of measures aimed at boosting business in Valletta, hit particularly hard by the economic fall-out of COVID-19, Chairperson of the Valletta Cultural Agency, Jason Micallef, announced that the licence on tables and chairs of businesses in the capital will be waived for the next three months.

At a press conference addressed on Friday morning, it was further explained that table and chair encroachment fees, which businesses making use of outdoor space pay monthly, will be waived for the next three months.

In addition, the special licence required by motorists to enter and park in the Capital from Monday to Sunday, known as the CVA licence, will also be waived for the next three months. Transport Minster Ian Borg said this measure will “cost” the Government some €200,000, “and has been taken with full respect towards residents”.

The ferry connecting Sliema with Valletta and Cottonera with the capital will be free of charge seven days per week, between 6pm and midnight.

Leading cultural heritage attractions, such as The Upper Barrakka, the Saluting Battery and the Lascaris War Rooms and the War Tunnel Headquarters will have guided tours in Maltese and English organised free of charge.

A number of leading attractions in the capital will also be free of charge to enter, and will be kept open for extended hours in the month of July.

The Valletta Cultural Agency, together with the Arts Council Malta and Festival Malta will organise three events weekly, between July and September, free of charge. Mr Micallef said the events will attract different walks of life within society.

A festival atmosphere will be created through lighting, flags and other festive touches throughout the upcoming three months, Mr Micallef announced.

The Valletta regeneration package is estimated to cost the Government €750,000, €300,000 of which will be funded from the budget of the Tourism Ministry.

The press conference was also addressed by Tourism Minister Julia Farrugia Portelli and Parliamentary Secretary for Lands Chris Agius.