Heavy machinery including a bulldozer and a mechanical shovel were used for a clean-up at scenic San Blas Bay in Gozo this morning, raising a storm of protest.

It is understood that this was the first time that the cleaners, engaged by the Gozo Ministry, used such machinery to clean the bay. Such work was previously done by hand because of the sensitive nature of the place.

A spokesman for Mepa said an enforcement officer was being sent to the site. Nadur Council said it had received complaints and was looking into the matter.

Earlier this year the ministry defended the use of such equipment at Ramla L-Hamra Bay to remove an excessive amount of pebbles.

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