Unauthorised Strand structure removed after Planning Authority notice

A structure placed on public land outside a food establishment on the Strand in Sliema was removed on Tuesday 6 October, following enforcement action by the Planning Authority, TVM News and Newsbook reported.

The Planning Authority said its enforcement notice, EC/122/26, will remain in force until the site is fully restored to its original state and all its requirements have been met. It had warned that, if those responsible did not comply, it would escalate enforcement, including by taking direct action.

The case began on 2 October, when the Sliema Residents Association raised concerns about works outside a new restaurant at the corner of Annunciation Street and the Ferries. The association said an awning had been installed across the full width of the pavement and alleged that paving had been laid beyond the pavement onto the road. It said an enforcement request had been filed with the Planning Authority on behalf of the Sliema Local Council.

The same day, the Planning Authority confirmed it had issued the enforcement notice. It said complaints, including representations from the local council, had come in while the structure was still going up, and raised concerns about the use of public space, pedestrian access and road safety. According to the Authority, those responsible had already been told to stop works before the notice formally required removal. Newsbook reported that the notice names developer Carlo Stivala, whose hotel the restaurant forms part of, as the contravenor.

On Saturday 3 October, the Sliema Local Council said flooring, tables, chairs and other street furniture were being removed from the public space. The council said it had found no planning application or permit covering the area on the Planning Authority's map server when it checked.

Moviment Graffitti, which campaigned on the case, said on 6 October that the awning, planters, paving, tables and chairs were still in place, and warned it would take "direct action" if everything was not removed by Friday 9 October. After the removal, the group said it should not have taken public pressure to act against a structure on public land, and called for wider enforcement on the commercial use of pavements and public spaces.

No public response from the establishment's operators was reported in the coverage cited. Sliema News will update this story if the Planning Authority confirms the site has been fully restored.