Promenade plunged into darkness as sign of protest

The promenade in Bugibba running from Gillieru to the Suncrest Hotel was unlit yesterday night as a sign of protest by St Paul's Bay council against the issue of development permits for a number of structures along the sea front.

The council is arguing that the newly approved structures would obstruct the sea view for people strolling along the promenade, which also takes in Bay Square, Pioneer Road and St Anthony Street.

The council members yesterday decided on the action to switch off the lights unanimously. They feel the community as well as visitors can no longer tolerate this practice, mayor Paul Bugeja said.

"If one were to look up the promenade from the slipway to Bay Square, there is barely 100 metres from where one can see the sea from the promenade.

"One of the permits is for a temporary structure facing Hotel International while the other, for the Bognor Aquatic Club, is for a permanent structure.

"Approving such applications is simply not on. Such action is destroying the attraction offered by the promenade," Mr Bugeja said.

The mayor added that the council will be looking at any other action it could take to bring pressure to bear on the authorities not to approve similar permits.