The planning authority yesterday took action at two large derelict sites in Qawra, removing illegally dumped construction waste, concrete blocks, a large canopy, plastic furniture, oil drums and whole cars.

Both sites, one known as Ta' Zandu in Triq it-Tamar and the other a popular former nightclub, were fuelling complaints from neighbours as well as tourists holidaying in the area, the Malta Environment and Planning Authority said in a statement yesterday.

In a separate operation in Gozo, the authority removed stretches of roadside field walls that had been built illegally with franka stone as well as some idle mechanical equipment found on site in the vicinity of the prime archaeological site known as the Xagħra Stone Circle.

This site lies close to the Ġgantija temples, which is a Unesco World Heritage site and area of archaeological importance.

In another operation in Xewkija, enforcement officers removed a number of derelict cars, engines, scrap metal and construction material that were being kept illegally at two sites in Triq Ta' Ħamet.

Mepa said the owners had illegally changed the use of their rural property into a commercial scrap yard and also offered panel beating services. However, they cooperated with the Mepa officials and continued removing substantial material themselves following Mepa's action.

The direct action operations were carried out with the assistance of the Administrative Law Enforcement and the Gozo Police.