Residents and business owners in St Julian's are objecting to a recently opened ice cream parlour, which, they insist, has installed bright lights that flash all night long.

The owner of a number of restaurants in the Spinola area said the lighting on the ice cream shop's facade was not only polluting the area but also clashed with other shopfronts.

“All of us here have had to respect strict guidelines when installing lighting systems, and yet this outlet decided to have disco-like lights,” the owner said. He pointed out he had spent about €20,000 on lighting to ensure it was of the highest standard.

Local residents have also complained about the bright lights shining through the night, claiming they resemble the strobe lights found in clubs.

St Julian's mayor Guido Dalli also expressed concern over the installation of the bright lights.

While he said he was not aware of any complaints from residents, Mr Dalli insisted he would be taking action to ensure the situation was addressed.

“I will be getting in touch with the owners myself to address the issue,” Mr Dalli told the Times of Malta.

The Spinola area has been going through a major transformation in recent years, with the majority of old outlets being engulfed by development, including a 424-space car park, a supermarket, offices, shops and apartments in Mikiel Anġ Borg Road.