A massive illegal electronic billboard that made an appearance at one of Malta’s busiest junctions last Friday was removed within 24 hours after the planning authority’s prompt intervention.

Workers of RVC Ltd, a Ħamrun-based company associated with the construction industry, descended on Msida circus accompanied by a small crane and trucks.

The billboard was erected on high metal scaffolding and connected to the government’s electricity supply which is used for street lighting. A number of concrete bollards were used to weigh down the structure and make it secure.

Passers-by drew Mepa’s attention to the billboard – described by drivers as an eyesore – asking whether it had the blessing of the planning authority.

Mepa acted immediately on the complaints.

Within 24 hours, the structure was dismantled as it was established that it was not covered by a permit and that RVC Ltd was breaching the law.

A spokesman for Mepa told Times of Malta that “the illegal structure was removed soon after the enforcement notice was served”.

Mepa has been facing criticism for permitting illegal billboards, used for commercial purposes, to stay in place across the main arterial route network.

This is despite declarations, including by Parliamentary Secretary Michael Falzon, that they would be removed.