The letter emphasised that the poor enforcement system in the country, including the insignificant fines applied to commercial establishments committing these illegalities, is encouraging the same operators of these establishments to continue misappropriating public spaces.

“This situation is creating an uneven playing field, impacting public spaces, urban conservation areas, accessibility, and overall urban management.”

The groups insisted that urban developments must respect physical capacity constraints to ensure a well-planned and sustainable environment where free public spaces, catering, retail, and creative industries coexist to ensure the authenticity and enhance the experience of our cities and towns.

The disparity in enforcement across sectors was also addressed: “If strict compliance is expected in tourism accommodation, the same principle should apply to all commercial activities impacting public spaces.”

They remarked that stronger supervision and management, through both technology and traditional enforcement, would help ensure fairness, prevent abuse, and protect the Maltese Islands’ tourism and hospitality offering. They further proposed the implementation of a public database of permits, alongside a transparent reporting system, which would further enhance accountability.

These are the groups and organisations that signed:

Marsascala Residents’ Network
Sliema Residents Association
Residenti Beltin
Residenti tal-Mellieha
San Pawl Residents
Azzjoni: Tuna Artna Lura
Residenti Belt Victoria
Moviment Graffitti
Il-Kollettiv
Flimkien ghal Ambjent Ahjar
Din l-Art Helwa
Wirt Ghawdex
Friends of the Earth Malta
MOVE
ADPD
Momentum