I refer to Allan Mulcahy’s letter ‘Very demeaning practice’ (May 27).

He comments that “the occasional use of Valletta-facing fortifications for night-time advertising displays is very demeaning”. While agreeing that there is a need to regulate what is being projected on these fortifications, this statement needs to be qualified.

The night projections are aimed at displaying information on cultural events organised by Heritage Malta and other entities. Therefore, it is important to note that this practice is limited and linked only to the events held as part of such occasions. This practice will become demeaning only if this fort is turned into an electronic billboard.

These projections are allowed by the agency only if they respect one of the following criteria: the valorisation and celebration of Malta’s outstanding patrimony; the promotion of Heritage Malta’s and other noteworthy events and activities and the integration of this most iconic monument with daily life in the Grand Harbour environs. Mulcahy criticises “the poor standard of floodlighting”. It is pertinent to point out that the photo used to frame this standard was shot before the restoration works were completed and, therefore, does not justify the content of this comment.

The floodlighting and the scheme was designed by an internationally-renowned architecture lighting designer.

The concept of the scheme is not aimed at light-washing the fortification walls evenly but replicates the light-and-shade effect on the fort as experienced during the day. The contrast between dark-shaded areas and lit areas is intentional and part of the lighting scheme design.

Notwithstanding this, the agency carries out regular adjustments under the guidance of the designer to further improve the quality of the scheme.

The containers referred to by Mulcahy were placed there by third parties as part of the operations of the marina and, therefore, do not fall under the responsibility of the agency.