A kiosk on the main square would rob Mosta residents of a space that, for years, brought the community together, according to mayor Edwin Vassallo.

He was reacting to a recently-filed application to place a mobile kiosk on the Rotunda Square, a few metres from the parish church. The area earmarked for the kiosk was often used by the local council and Mosta organisations to hold events. It was also considered by residents as a meeting place, where one could have a chat with friends, Mr Vassallo said.

“The space makes the square what it is. People meet there and it also serves as the venue for a number of events.

“This would all be disrupted if some huge kiosk is placed there,” he added.

Earlier this week, the local council held an urgent meeting on the proposed kiosk and the objections expressed by all the members were communicated to the Planning Authority, Mr Vassallo said.

He said the council had been inundated with complaints and concerns by residents. Similar views were also expressed on the social media, with a number of residents pointing out that the proposed kiosk could also block access to other parts of the square.

The kiosk, Mr Vassallo pointed out, would also negatively impact the square’s aesthetic appeal, especially since it would stand so close to the Mosta Dome, which attracted hundreds of tourists.

“It’s not only a matter of the space being taken up but you also need to keep in mind the overall look of the square, which would be ruined, especially if tables and chairs are set up,” he said.

Noting that the council had already communicated its strong objections to the Planning Authority, Mr Vassallo urged residents and Mosta organisations to do the same, calling on those disagreeing with the proposed kiosk project to make their voices heard.