Gozo hotel's 'tent' on Mepa blacklist

A large tent-like structure annexed to the Calypso Hotel at il-Menqa, in Marsalforn, is on the Malta Environment and Planning Authority (Mepa) blacklist for demolition after various attempts by the authority to stop the development were ignored.

The tent, which is an extension of the hotel and is used as a restaurant and café was built without a Mepa permit.

However, a direct action order issued by Mepa in January 2004 is still pending.

Mepa had initially issued an enforcement notice in July 2003 when the management constructed a concrete platform, but this did not deter the hotel from continuing with its project to put up the structure, which can accommodate over 60 tables.

A Mepa spokesman said when contacted that the case (ECF366/03) refers to a concrete platform and stairs/ramp that were constructed by the Calypso Hotel. The tent is covered in the description of the breach.

No application or appeal from the notice were submitted and the case was referred for direct action, the spokesman added. Asked why no direct action has been taken since the referral of the illegality for direct action over three years ago, the spokesman said: "Direct action will be undertaken in due course."

Owners of catering establishments in Marsalforn noted that this presented a sharp contrast to the situation regarding other infringements.

One of them noted how the industry earnestly awaits the summer to make up for the lean winter months. At times, restaurateurs take over more space for tables than they are allowed according to their permit.

But the Malta Tourism Authority and the police are then quick to make them remove the additional tables and even slap a hefty fine.

"What irks us is the feeling that there seem to be two weights and two measures....", a restaurant owner remarked.

The Calypso Hotel management was asked to comment but no reply was forthcoming by the time of going to press.