One of the main problems affecting our localities is that of parking facilities or rather the lack of them. Forming part of the St Paul’s Bay local council deepened my understanding of how this difficulty is taking its toll on all sectors of our communities such as residents, visitors and the business sector.

These different sectors have diverse priorities which, in this particular case, the council, Transport Malta, Mepa and the central government try to balance. In a locality that is ever expanding the demand for parking spaces will continue to grow.

No tailor-made or perfect solutions exist,yet, I strongly believe that measures can be taken to lessen the impact of a problem that is taking its toll on our health and economy.

Driving around endlessly looking for an elusive parking slot is increasing emission levels and creating road rage, leading to serious incidents. The lack of parking facilities is also affecting the business community with potential customers driving away or avoiding the area altogether. Stating that nothing has been done to tackle the problem would be dishonest. However, the challenges increase every day and a serious attempt to overcome them still has to be made. A proposal to introduce a resident parking scheme in 2013 did not find the required support.

I am taking the initiative to invite all interested parties to forward their ideas and suggestions on how they think the problem would be best tackled.

I believe that those who are facing the problem can come up with schemes or solutions tailor-made for our locality. The most valid suggestions will be presented to the council for a serious discussion.

With the limited funds at its disposal the council cannot achieve much, but surely alternative ways of funding (EU funding, Commuted Parking Payment Scheme [Mepa] or public-private partnership) can be explored.

Kindly send your suggestions by August 10 to dr.robertpiscopo@gmail.com.