Crumbling rocks along the Għar Lapsi cliffs are becoming an increasing danger to bathers as many venture beyond the fencing set up to block off dangerous spots.

A number of experts, including a geologist, have been asked to draw up technical reports

Siġġiewi council, together with the Resources’ Ministry, has brought in technical experts in an attempt to find a solution, mayor Karol Aquilina said.

Fencing has been erected pending the conclusion of a technical survey and a potential solution to the problem, he said.

“The ministry has on several occasions installed fencing to close off to the public all dangerous areas. A number of warning signs were also installed on site.

“Regrettably, a number of people have repeatedly caused damage to the fencing, ignored the numerous warning signs and made their way to the dangerous areas. The ministry has repeatedly re-installed the fencing and the warning signs in a bid to avoid any incident,” Dr Aquilina said.

Last November, a large section of the cliff at Għar Lapsi, located on the outskirts of Siġġiewi, crashed down into the popular bathing area. Large boulders on the top of the cliff are on the verge of tumbling.

Apart from that, rocks are also collapsing in the area near the cave.

In a letter to The Sunday Times, reader Joseph Abdilla, who regularly visits the scenic spot, said the Siġġiewi council would be responsible in the event of an accident.

Dr Aquilina said the council was fully aware of the “worrying situation” and was working to find a solution to the deteriorating rock formation.

“A number of experts, including a geologist, have been asked to draw up technical reports on the developing situation at Għar Lapsi. More recently, another architect with specialist knowledge in rock movement was asked to study the prevailing situation at Għar Lapsi.

A technical survey of the area is currently being carried out by the ministry’s personnel and will be used by the architect to finalise his findings,” he said.