Victoria parking problem

Residents of Victoria recently protested against the Zone A limited parking scheme, as well as the flooding of residential areas during heavy rainfall.

Joseph G. Grech, executive secretary of the Gozo Business Chamber, said that the pedestrian areas, especially in the city centre, should be supplemented by more temporary parking spaces until the underground car park at the terminus site materialises. "Another important aspect is the parking problem in Victoria and traffic jams caused by heavy flow of traffic. This is something which needs to be seen to," he said.

Mayor Vivienne Galea Pace stated that the Victoria council is fully aware of the problem and is working to find a solution as soon as possible. She said that its request to the Gozo Ministry to allow cars to park in the school grounds on weekends and public holidays was recently accepted.

MEPA had turned down the council's application for a permit to transform the ditch surrounding the Citadel into a temporary car park for 300 cars. Recently the appeals board, chaired by Dr Tania Sciberras Camilleri, discussed the matter with the council's architect Edward Scerri. The council is now awaiting the board's decision.

Mrs Galea Pace added that she recently presented a motion to the council regarding the Zone A limited parking scheme, proposing it remains in force, except for the Victoria residents. After writing to architect Audrey Testaferrata de Noto, chairman of the Transport Authority, she was invited to attend the ADT board meeting to discuss the issue. The council is currently awaiting the board's decision.

Reference was made to concerns regarding water culverts in Assumption Street and Savina Square, two residential areas which flood during rainfalls. Mrs Galea Pace stated that the local council is currently unable to embark on the project due to financial constraints, however it is on their priority list.