Half of Sliema roads marked for residential parking

Parking in Sliema will soon become even more difficult for non-residents as parking restrictions take over half the roads in the busy touristic and commercial centre.

According to the residential parking scheme being proposed by the local council, non-residents will only be able to park for two hours in half the roads. Residents will have no such restrictions.

The time limitations will apply between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. and will come into force once the Malta Transport Authority (ADT) approves the scheme in each street.

The council yesterday defen-ded the system it said came after a consultation process and a number of technical studies.

It also said the plans were agreed upon by the ADT, even though final approval of each street was still pending.

No date was given as to when the scheme will be implemented and, when contacted, deputy mayor Johanna Gonzi said she could not comment until the mayor Nikki Dimech returned from abroad.

The council promised that while waiting for final approval from ADT it would address any problems that might arise but "without altering the rights given to residents".

It pointed out that the Strand area would not be part of the scheme because the road already had time limitations and the necessary signage has been in place for years.

Sliema is one of 19 towns and villages that have been selected to have reserved parking zones for residents approved by the ADT.

Although the plans make life easier for residents, several people have complained that this would affect business in the busy commercial town. However, the council said the proposals had met the approval of the Chamber for Small and Medium Enterprises - GRTU.

Some residents have also complained that visitors to their homes would be affected.