The Government of Malta has confirmed the purchase of the former Downtown Hotel in Victoria for the development of a new Gozo courthouse. The property was secured for €6.325 million, following a public market consultation that evaluated eleven submissions. The project replaces the long-criticised Citadel courthouse, which no longer meets functional or accessibility standards.
A Central and Practical Location
The Downtown Hotel site offers a more accessible and functional setting for court services. The building originally closed during the COVID pandemic and was later used for a period as a temporary facility for elderly patients transferred from Gozo General Hospital. It has remained inactive since, making it a suitable candidate for redevelopment.
The surrounding area includes key public and community facilities such as:
- Victoria Sports Complex, recently renovated
- Gozo College Primary, Middle, and Secondary Schools both within walking distance
- Arkadia Commercial Centre, offering retail services and parking
- Direct access to major routes including Triq l-Ewropa
This concentration of services makes the site a practical choice for daily court operations and for the many residents and businesses who rely on the Gozo justice system.
Parking and Mobility Considerations
Although centrally located, the area around the Downtown Hotel is already busy, particularly during school hours. Parking availability is limited, and increased demand once court services relocate may place further pressure on nearby streets. Authorities have not yet published mobility or parking plans, which will be an important aspect of the project of new Gozo Court as designs progress.
Project Timeline
Government announcements indicate that redevelopment works should be completed within three years from the start of construction. No opening date has been set, and detailed project plans are still to be released.
What this Means for Residents, Expats and Businesses
The new courthouse is expected to deliver several improvements for the Gozo community:
- Better accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges
- Modern facilities that support efficient hearings and legal processes
- A stronger administrative centre for Victoria, with positive long-term implications for property, commercial activity and professional services
For expats and foreign investors, easier access to legal and administrative services reduces friction when dealing with property transactions, disputes or compliance matters on the island.
A Note From us in Gozo
As a team based in Gozo, we see first-hand how important accessible public services are for the local community, expats and investors who build their lives and businesses here. This project represents a meaningful step toward a more functional and modern justice system on the island. We will continue following its progress and sharing updates that matter to those who call Gozo home.
The coming phases will clarify construction timelines, design features, public access arrangements and solutions for mobility and parking in this high-activity part of Victoria. Expatax Malta will continue monitoring these developments and provide updates relevant to residents, businesses and international clients operating in Gozo.
Follow us across our social media channels for more daily updates.
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