The Public Works Department has always been a kingpin in building the country’s resilience. It has helped shape Malta and Gozo’s infrastructure development with a responsibility for delivering projects that directly impact everyday life — ranging from roads, schools, hospitals, marine water and drainage infrastructure, housing, public gardens, heritage restoration, environmental improvements, waste management and cleansing services, and sustainable public spaces. The Department works closely with Local Councils, other government and non-governmental organisations, and communities at large to ensure projects meet local needs and national priorities.

Our Legacy

The origins of the Public Works Department date back to the time of the Order of St. John, when Malta began formalising building regulations, nurturing the establishment of the Maltese architect-engineer tradition, and constructing some of the most iconic public landmarks including the Grand Master’s Palace, fortifications and the Conventual Church of St. John.

During British rule, in the 19th century, the Department of Public Works took shape as a modern government entity, formalising its responsibilities for maintaining and constructing public infrastructure, roads, docks and government properties. Over time, the Public Works Department oversaw almost all infrastructural works in Malta and Gozo, from design through to execution and maintenance and contributed to the evolution of Malta’s towns, cities, and landscapes.

Over time, the Public Works Department evolved on numerous occasions, including its structure, remit and responsibilities. Many entities migrated out of it to perform functions independently and now exist as departments, authorities, or agencies in their own right across different Ministries within Government. Hence there is no doubt that the Public Works Department has continuously evolved, re-invented and re-organised itself to meet new challenges and address emerging needs at a national level.

In 2025, the Public Works Department re-organised itself once again to address present and foreseeable future needs, with a focus on improving the quality of life for citizens; a need for more focus, drive, and efficiency in timely delivery of projects, and its contribution to SDGs, ESG, climate action and green transformation.  

Today, the Public Works Department continues to blend this historical legacy with modern innovation, focusing on efficiency, sustainability, and community engagement. Two focused Divisions – namely the Works Division and the Community Projects Division, were created for this purpose.

Did You Know?

• The Public Works Department has shaped Malta and Gozo for over five centuries, from the Knights of St. John to the present day.
• The Department oversaw iconic landmarks like the Grand Master’s Palace, Conventual Church of St. John, and Malta’s historic fortifications, amongst others.
• In 2024, the Public Works Department entered into Memoranda of Understanding with 54 Local Councils to implement a Framework Agreement across communities.
• Today the Public Works Department is made up of the Works Division and the Community Projects Division for better focus, efficiency and community engagement.