The use of heavy machinery at the scenic San Blas Bay, which prompted protests from environmentalists, was intended to clean the bay from algae, the Gozo Ministry said.

In a statement issued four days after the article appeared, the Gozo Ministry said these works were carried for the benefit of those frequenting this beach. It added that the ministry was now coordinating with the planning authority on how to proceed.

Last week this newspaper reported that for the first time this beach had been cleaned up using a bulldozer and a mechanical shovel instead of manually.

Environmentalists pointed out that such an operation had to be done by hand due to the ecological importance of the place.

A planning authority spokesman had also confirmed that an enforcement officer had been dispatched to the area.

Other complaints were lodged with the Nadur council, which said it was looking into the matter.

Reacting to the recent controversy at Ramla bay where heavy machinery was used to remove pebbles, the ministry said the procedure was the same one adopted in previous years.

It also noted that Gaia foundation supported this initiative.