Sad decline of Sliema promenade

I could not agree more with correspondent Karl Consiglio regarding the sorry state of the tower in Sliema (Giant Menu An Eyesore In Sliema, October 23). This is probably Sliema's most historical building and it is inconceivable how the authorities have closed their eyes to this debasement. The offensive menu board, the hideous structure along the side, the cheap advertising furniture and the cluster of kiddie machines has reduced this noble structure to ridicule. Is it any wonder that the place always looks empty?

The Sliema promenade is enjoyed by thousands and is probably Malta's most popular location and yet it seems to be neglected by the authorities. There are dozens of ugly telephone booths of various colours, sizes and shapes, some out of order all along the front. The Fortizza, now neglected, is falling into disrepair and fast becoming an eyesore. In Font Għadir the kiosk owner now stores the gas cylinders outside and has surrounded his premises with cigarette and drinks machines.

What was once a decent and well kept kiosk is fast becoming untidy and has lost the standard the owners set for themselves when they set up the business. But who can blame them - it's a free for all.

In Għar id-Dud thousands of euro in public funds were spent to beautify the area but it looks as shabby as ever. The crumbling catering kiosks with their cheap red and blue advertising furniture and sunshades, as well as the mews kiosk, look as ugly as ever and make the place look like a cheap seaside resort. One, next to the Fortizza, actually expanded its footprint by over a third. I did not notice the normal Mepa announcements during this expansion. I did bring the matter to the attention of Jason Azzopardi at the beginning of the season when the works were under way. I am still waiting for a reply! A petrol station has been turned into a fully fledged retail outlet and service station with its own parking facilities and a cacophony of machines blocking half the pavement!

Caterers place their menu boards all over the place with complete disregard to pedestrians. Unsightly advertising along the Piazzetta parking area as well as on the railings above the St Julians water polo club block the view.

There is total confusion and indiscipline everywhere with standards non-existent. Is it that difficult to introduce standards and enforce them?

It is indeed sad that the beautiful Sliema promenade is so sadly neglected by the authorities.

Does anybody care?