A website is to be set up by the Transport Ministry where people can report any potholes or other damage in the streets and street furniture. They will also be able to submit photos, minister Joe Mizzi said in Parliament this evening.

The minister was replying to questions in parliament.

He said that Malta will be divided into four zones which will be patrolled by a maintenance unit which will report and rectify road damages.

This system, he said, would not remove the duties of local councils to maintain streets within their responsibilities. However the government would intervene immediately where safety was involved. Where there were repeated problems in streets falling under the responsibility of the councils, the councils would be billed for the work.

Telephone numbers will also be advertised near traffic lights for people to report faults.

Mr Mizzi said that Arriva would be billed for a clean-up made at City Gate terminus, which is the responsibility of the bus operator.

Questioned on the Sliema parking scheme, Mr Mizzi said this problem had to be considered within the context of the comprehensive parking plan, which is currently being discussed by the authorities.