The owners of Marsalforn restaurants yesterday vociferously complained to the Gozo Ministry over new excavation works being carried out at Il-Menqa.
They said that, while business had been “very slow” over the winter months, the ministry had decided to start excavating at the start of the peak season.
“We cannot understand the total lack of programming by the ministry. While no works were done over the quiet winter season, a few days ago bulldozers descended on the area and started digging in front of our restaurants. This is totally unacceptable,” the owner of one popular restaurant said.
A few days ago bulldozers descended on the area and started digging in front of our restaurants. This is totally unacceptable
Several of the restaurants in Marsalforn are situated in the zone affected by the works, which are just across from where they host outdoor diners.
Times of Malta is informed that a new lighting system is being installed by the government.
The area in Marsalforn, in front of a line of restaurants, where excavation is taking place for a new lighting system.Restaurateurs reported a sudden drop in business with many of them having to host their clients inside and behind plastic sheeting to shield their dining areas from the clouds of dust kicked up by the work.
Another restaurant owner in the same area blasted the ministry officials: “The government issued a law stating that no excavation works should be carried over the summer period in tourist areas. Now the same government is defying the law by digging up trenches in front of us when the tourist season has just started.”
Last night the ministry said it had obtained an exemption from the Malta Tourism Authority for the works to go ahead, and the project would risk losing EU funds if not finished on time. The trenching works are expected to be done by tomorrow, it added.