The Planning Authority has instructed the owners of a restaurant in Naxxar, which residents complain is occupying public space, to abide by their permit conditions, the Times of Malta was told.

Naxxar residents have complained to the planning watchdog that the new restaurant, Cicchetti, in Victory Square, just metres away from the main church, is occupying public space and two parking spaces.

The residents claim that the owners have taken over a lot more space than originally permitted and have not complied with the approved design, aimed at lessening the impact of the structure on its surroundings.

Residents also complain that the manner in which tables and chairs were placed near the new restaurant did not leave adequate space to allow easy passage of wheelchairs or pushchairs.

“We already have to bear the brunt of more business activity in a residential area. The fact that the little open spaces that remain are now being taken over by greedy businessmen is too much,” a disgruntled resident said.

“To rub more salt in the wound, they are not even made to follow the rules once the permit is issued. It seems we are living in an anarchy dominated by a few who have the money and connections,” another protested.

A spokesman for the Planning Authority confirmed that the restaurant owners had deviated from the conditions listed in the site permit.

“Following a site inspection, minor deviances from the permit were noted. The authority has instructed the owners to regularise their position. This case is being monitored to ensure the site is fully compliant,” the spokesman pointed out.

However, an irate resident said he did not understand why the owners of the new restaurant “are being treated with kid gloves” by the PA notwithstanding the various complaints that have been submitted.

“By now, there should have been an enforcement order and fines and not just a slap on the wrist. We are fed up complaining,” the resident said.

Cicchetti opened earlier this year and is also allowed to serve food and drinks in the square. The planning permit was issued last year on behalf of Omar Borg, however the restaurant is run by Michael Zammit Tabona, a well-known businessman from Naxxar.

Questions sent to Mr Zammit Tabona on the matter were unanswered at the time of writing.