A ferry service linking the Three Cities to the harbour was also planned.[17] In 2009 it was decided that the lift was to be rebuilt by the Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation at an estimated cost of €2 million. The estimated date of completion was originally March 2011,[19] but delays related to obtaining the required permits led to work on the project beginning in July 2011.[20][21][22] The construction of the lift was partially financed by the European Regional Development Fund.[23]