Internal alterations

I refer to the letter by Elaine Fitouri entitled Mepa Mix-Up.

This case refers to an application submitted by a third party, in this case a neighbour of Ms Fitouri. Without entering into the merits of this application, one may trace the communication Ms Fitouri had with Mepa on this issue.

Last February, Ms Fitouri filed a complaint claiming that a wall was being demolished in the neighbouring premises and that her maisonette, which lies above these premises, was in danger. The Mepa officer went to inspect the premises and found that the only alterations that were taking place were conduit for electricity and new tiles.

The owners were advised that alterations on the façade and internal alterations were not approved yet and that if they needed a fast track for internal alterations they were to apply with a DN application. A DN application was submitted on March 1 and approved on March 7.

Ms Fitouri again contacted Mepa and was told that works that were taking place till that date were in line with the permit already issued. The officer also advised her that if she was worried as regards to the stability of the structure of the whole building she should contact an architect.

It is to be regretted that Mepa is frequently involved in issues of bad neighbourliness as the time used may be fruitfully directed elsewhere.