The Superintendence of Cultural Heritage (SCH) has cleared the way for the long-contested extension to the Grand Hotel Excelsior in Floriana, concluding that this will not threaten the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of Valletta and its Harbour Fortifications. The decision follows successive redesigns that significantly reduced the height and bulk of the proposed 77-room wing, which also includes refurbished pool facilities and restoration works on the Quarantine Bastion. The planning process has been stalled since a PA board meeting held in 2022 pending the heritage assessment.