MEPA removes illegal structures at Rinella

MEPA officials and the police this morning moved in to remove illegal structures at the Mediterranean Film Studios in Rinella.

A spokesman for the Authority said the direct action was taken after an enforcement notice issued last March.

The structures were built relatively recently within the buffer zone around historic Fort Rinella, a grade 1 site, and have negative visual impact, particularly as seen from Fort Rinella.

The structures included a large store, an extension to a canteen, and smaller rooms.

In a brief statement, MEPA Chairman Austin Walker said: "While the Authority supports the initiatives and efforts the filming industry takes to remain competitive in the international market, we cannot tolerate that illegal and insensitive development takes places, especially on the doorstep of a historical site which daily attracts numerous visitors

“We need to safeguard and enhance the cultural and architectural heritage of our Island and keep working to improve our product together”.