Mellieha Council has decided to re-open Borg Olivier Street for two-way traffic after a public outcry.

The decision was taken this evening and comes just ahead of expected heavy traffic to and from Gozo for Notte Gozitana this weekend.

The road will be reopened on Friday for uphill traffic of light cars and a number of route buses. All other heavy vehicles heading south will be stopped at the bottom of the hill near Ghadira Bay and diverted along the road to Popeye Village.

Parking along Borg Olivier Street will be reduced to ease traffic flow. 

Traffic had, for the past few weeks, only been allowed downhill  (North bound towards Ghadira and Gozo).

The decision had been taken because of the increased volume of traffic flowing through the heart of Mellieha when the Mellieha Bypass was closed for rebuilding works. The work is expected to be completed in the autumn.

The diversion had caused a wave of protest, especially from Gozitans.

Mellieha Mayor Robert Cutajar said this morning that Roads Minister Austin Gatt informed him yesterday that works on the bypass were four weeks behind schedule because of unexpected problems.

Mr Cutajar said that much against its wishes, the council had to consider removing some parking in Borg Olivier Street to allow light vehicles to use the road in both directions. However heavy vehicles going uphill will still be diverted towards Popeye Village.

He said the problem would be eased once one lane uphill was opened on the bypass as works continue.

The mayor said that the counci had been been and will remain open to any suggestions that may improve the situation.