A gate controlling cars at the entrance to the protected Majjistral Park has been ripped out of its place and interpretation panels have been deliberately damaged.

The vandalism was condemned by the Majjistral Park management board which said it was working to control access to limit the damage to the already heavily eroded soils and trampled garigue habitats while curbing illegal offroading and dumping.

The gates were installed following a long process of collaboration with local park users, who have titles on the land. Visitors on foot and bicycle can continue to access the park without any hindrance.

Meanwhile, fires of unknown origin spread throughout the park at Xagħra l-Ħamra last week and were controlled by the Civil Protection Department, which was alerted by a local farmer who was passing by.

The management appealed to the public to contact the police to report any illegal or suspicious activities or fires on 112.

Malta’s only national natural park occupies a vast stretch of land in Mellieħa, from Golden Bay to Anchor Bay and is a place of relaxation while acting as an outdoor classroom for hundreds of students each year.

It also provides important farmland and a precious habitat for a wide range of biodiversity.