Residents only/60-minutes parking

'I've been given an unjust penalty for the second time. I didn't contest it the first time and paid it, since I don't have time to waste. The reason I think it is unjust is because I live in Mensija Road, as I have done for the past three years.

'Mensija Road is busy with construction works and parking is very difficult. When I finish work at six a.m., I sometimes have to wait until 8 a.m. to find a parking space. This is because all the places are occupied by businesses who own two or three vans, which they permanently keep parked.

'I therefore have to park on the left side of the road, which is meant to be for residents and time restricted for others. But this side of the road is hardly used by residents, as all business vehicles get the bays first. There is a greengrocer who has a fridge van with electricity crossing the road, and another large truck. These two vehicles occupy four parking spaces.

'I have reported this to the ADT, the police and Enemalta several times, but to no avail. This business is now being renovated and has moved to another shop, bringing a crane and several other vehicles. This means another five parking spaces gone.

'I also think it's unfair that a person is fined simply because the registered owner is not a resident. What if the car is registered under a different address? I strongly suggest that these policies are reviewed, especially with the current storm brewing about residents' parking.' (Stanley Grixti)

I urge Mr Grixti not to pay another fine. I feature his case as I was approached by other people who have complained about similar cases. As readers know, we are currently running a campaign against the way local councils have taken it upon themselves to adopt a policy that prohibits people who do not live in their area/street from parking cars in their streets for longer than two hours. This is illegal.