Marsaskala residents are frustrated by local restaurants’ illegal occupation of public spaces, with the Marsaskala Residents Network (MRN) noting in a statement that the problem has increased this summer, leading to significant inconveniences and safety concerns.
The MRN said it has been highlighting the problem with several authorities, including the Planning Authority, Lands Authority, Malta Tourism Authority, Police, Commission for the Rights of Persons with Disability, and Transport Malta.
The residents’ complaints concern businesses either occupying public spaces unlawfully or breaching permit conditions.
The MRN said the establishments were causing problems such as blocked pavements and ramps, which limit the mobility of people with disabilities.
Despite repeated appeals, the MRN said it had not received responses from the authorities, which it accuses of ignoring the problem. The Planning Authority said enforcement actions would only follow after sanctioning decisions were made.
The disregard for residents’ rights and civic principles was unacceptable, the MRN added.
It urged Marsaskala residents to pressure local council members to uphold community rights and accessibility standards, saying residents should report any violations to the relevant authorities, providing the date, establishment name, street address, and photographic evidence.
With all due respect to the residents, I have spent countless summers going to Marsaskala for dinner of sorts, back in the 90s…this takeover of public spaces has been happening since forever…by both businesses and residents themselves who bring out their folding chairs and table, get a pizza from across the road and enjoy it by the sea. This does not mean that it is ok to take up public spaces in this manner but this MRN is making it sound like they woke up one fine morning and saw a new Marsascala in front of them.
Yeah, let’s ask “this” MRN thingie to disband already. Did you have your capuccino yet? Did the chocolate frosting come in the shape of a heart?
Many citizens should stop moaning and accept they’re getting exactly what they voted for. Stop moaning and beat your chests while uttering ‘mea culpa’!
So the 49% (minority) who voted against such governments and practices, should join the majority, stop moaning and beating their chests, while uttering mea culpa, right? Or are you saying that once election day passes, the minority stops existing?
And what about paola Square? It is the government who put up the benches and then the Labour Party club brought out the tables to complement the scene.