Malta's request to extend a derogation from EU limits on air pollution for particulate matter is worrying the Sliema Residents Association.

The association said it was concerned the Maltese authorities were failing to honour their EU commitment.

The derogation was originally set to January 2010 but this had been extended until the end of June 2011.

The association said Sliema was subjected to high levels of air pollution that frequently exceeded EU safeguard limits, to the detriment of residents' health and quality of life.

It said the problem was a direct consequence of recent over-development, which has led to increased traffic without any mitigation or improved capacity. This development was authorised by the Malta Environment and Planning Authority, which was responsible for managing air pollution.

"Mepa continues to ignore these issues and grant further permits for new development. Mepa expects other entities such as the Malta Transport Authority (ADT) to address the problems of traffic management and pollution that have arisen," the association said.

It added that ADT had indicated that more development in Sliema could precipitate traffic gridlock and admitted inability to solve problems caused by poorly coordinated and excessive development in the area.

The association said it was sceptical of the government's intention to submit its request for an extension, with regard to EU compliance of air quality norms, given this should include a competent air quality improvement plan.

"Such doubts arise from the awareness that the long overdue Sliema holistic traffic management plan, aimed at mitigating air pollution caused by traffic in the locality, is still at the stage of conception or infancy at best," it said.