Unsightly buildings in the capital city

The initiative of the Mayor of Valletta to renovate and upgrade the façades of buildings in the City is obviously laudable. We have a capital city which is an architectural and historical gem and no effort should be spared to preserve and enhance the patrimony which has been bequeathed to us by past generations.

I have not read the text of the proposed bye-law. However, the report on The Times mentioned that it will become mandatory to paint the façade of buildings every three years. Although the intention is good, the measure is, I feel, rather arbitrary. If a façade is painted with good-quality paint over adequate surface preparation by a skilled decorator, it should last well beyond three years. I dread to envisage a scenario where practically every Valletta pavement is permanently obstructed by scaffolding as workmen ply their trade to ensure compliance with the bye-law. One must also mention the substantial cost factor and the reluctant response one gets when requesting tradesmen to carry out work in Valletta. Then there is the logistical nightmare of working in areas with heavy passenger traffic, especially if these happen to be pedestrianised.

It would make more sense for the council to be empowered to enforce the law on owners/tenants on a case-by-case basis where it becomes obvious that a particular façade is manifestly in need of repainting.