Labour’s spokesperson for tourism Marie-Louise Coleiro-Preca has stated that the rules against construction in tourism zones during summer have not been enforced, resulting in excessive noise and waste due to works right inside tourism zones.
“Unfortunately the situation in our country is the exact opposite to what happens in other countries, where construction sites are not only closed down for health and safety reasons, but are actually decorated so as not to impact negatively on the environs,” Coleiro-Preca said.
The Labour MP said the tourism industry was complaining about the negative impact and bad impression that ongoing construction has left on holidaymakers. “This is not just a breach of rules, but a serious lack of ownership by the concerned authorities who are not taking up the responsibility to implement the construction rules and enforce them.”
The regulations were issued by Environment Minister George Pullicino in 2007 to minimise the nuisance factor of construction sites to neighbours – involving mainly dust and noise levels, as well as working hours and conditions.
The rules were expected to introduce more accountability, as developers will have to exhibit a notice containing details of the developer, the architect and the site manager, as well as an emergency phone number.
Developers have to deposit a bank guarantee to pay for any damage to pavements and street furniture. Enforcement of the new rules is the responsibility of MEPA.
“Not only do these regulations have to be enforced, but the environment and Maltese heritage must be improved to assure tourists get a good and positive impression of our country. We cannot expect to spend millions in advertising our country when tourists come here to find a situation where they cannot enjoy the holiday they have paid for,” Coleiro-Preca said.