I refer to the letter Damage To Balzan Church Parvis (June 10).

As amply stated in the letter, the works being undertaken involve the necessity of diverting traffic through alternative routes. Diversion signs, including “No access to the main square”, were set up not only close to the site in question but even on the main approaches to the village. Arriva buses were also informed and a diversion route for the buses was issued, including a notice in the press informing the residents of the changes approved by Transport Malta.

However, some drivers of delivery vans and also a bus did try to pass through the small lane, which was opened near the church. This opening was provided by the council to permit residents living in the area and small cars to flow through but was not designed for heavy traffic.

While it is not in our interest that damage to the church parvis was done, the local council took immediate steps to dismantle the church parvis to avoid danger and further damage. This will be replaced in the coming weeks because the main square is now open for normal traffic to proceed.