Resident groups and organisations are urging Tourism Minister Ian Borg to “stop the rampant abuse of public open spaces by commercial establishments” and “to take a clear stance in reassuring action will be taken to stop it.”

In a letter addressed to the Tourism Minister, the resident groups and organisations highlighted the “lack of enforcement and lack of action being taken by the authorities to refrain commercial establishments from illegally appropriating public spaces all over the Maltese Islands.”

“Tables and chairs, umbrellas, planters, food displays, street platforms, enclosures and other paraphernalia have taken over pedestrian areas, pavements, parking spaces, entire streets and beaches reducing the quality of life and safety of residents and visitors alike,” they said.

The resident groups and organisations also emphasised that the “poor enforcement system in the country, including the insignificant fines applied to commercial establishments committing these illegalities, is encouraging the same operators of these establishments to continue misappropriating public spaces.”

They argued that “this situation is creating an uneven playing field, impacting public spaces, urban conservation areas, accessibility, and overall urban management.”

The resident groups and organisations also insisted that catering businesses “should not be allowed to encroach upon public outdoor areas, and that urban developments must respect physical capacity constraints to ensure a well-planned and sustainable environment where free public spaces, catering, retail, and creative industries coexist to ensure the authenticity and enhance the experience of our cities and towns.”

The disparity in enforcement across sectors was also addressed by the resident groups and organisations, whereby they stated that “if strict compliance is expected in tourism accommodation, the same principle should apply to all commercial activities impacting public spaces.”

They remarked that “stronger supervision and management, through both technology and traditional enforcement, would help ensure fairness, prevent abuse, and protect the Maltese Islands’ tourism and hospitality offering.”

In addition, they also stated that a public database of permits, alongside a transparent reporting system, would further enhance accountability.

In their letter, the resident groups and organisations urged Minister Borg “to take the necessary steps to create a well-regulated, diversified, and vibrant urban environment which respects the well-being of residents.”

The 16 resident groups and organisations are:

Marsascala Residents’ Network

Sliema Residents Association

Residenti Beltin

Residenti tal-Mellieha

San Pawl Residents

Azzjoni: Tuna Artna Lura

Residenti Belt Victoria

Moviment Graffitti

Il-Kollettiv

Flimkien ghal Ambjent Ahjar

Din l-Art Helwa

Wirt Ghawdex

Friends of the Earth Malta

MOVE

ADPD

Momentum.

File photo: Moviment Graffitti – St George’s Square protest

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