Sliema council objects to 'illegal' pavement extension

The Sliema local council yesterday filed a judicial protest in the First Hall of the Civil Court claiming that construction works underway in High Street were not in accordance with planning permits. The protest was filed against Central Hotels Ltd, Central Leisure Developments Ltd and AX Holdings Ltd.

The council referred to development works underway on The Palace Hotel and to the width of the pavement. It alleged that Angelo Xuereb, a director of the three companies, had admitted that the extension of the pavement in front of the hotel was not in conformity with Mepa's permit. The council added that the pavement overran the proposed width as approved by Mepa. The pavement was also dangerous and not in conformity with the regulations concerning persons with a disability.

The construction also eliminated a number of parking spaces.

However, despite this admission, Mr Xuereb had not remedied the situation and was now trying to obtain an amendment to his building permit to retain the pavement's width. According to the council, Mepa was obliged to immediately take action against the three companies by issuing an enforcement order. The authority should not allow any amendments to the permits originally issued.

In conclusion, the council formally protested to the construction works and held the three companies liable in damages.

Lawyer Ivan Gatt acted on behalf of the council.