Xylophones Removed From St Paul’s Bay Due To Instrument ‘Abuse’ And Noise Complaints
A set of outdoor xylophones and other musical instruments have been removed from the San Pawl il-Baħar Local Council.
“Following various complaints from elderly residents in the area” the San Pawl il-Baħar Local Council told Lovin Malta.
“And due to abuse of use of these instruments and a recommendation from the Commissioner of Environment and Planning from the Office of the Ombudsman, we decided to remove these instruments.”
It is unclear what the “abuse of use” of these instruments was – however it is worth mentioning that the possibility that instruments would make noise should have been considered prior to their installation.
When it comes to public privileges, taking something away from people is usually more difficult than not giving it to them in the first place.
These instruments were located between Buġibba and St Paul’s Bay in the park overlooking Triq Dawret il-Gżejjer – directly above an outdoor gym installed at the same time a few years ago.
While the instruments have been removed, the metal poles which once (symbolically) supported children's musical aspirations are still jutting out of the ground
A resident – who’s child enjoyed playing these instruments – was disappointed to see that they had been removed, and took to social media to express his displeasure.
“It was to much ‘noise’ for local neighbours” said the resident. “I guess they prefer sounds of fireworks and drilling… shame…”
This location is within shouting (or xylophone playing) distance of one of St Paul’s Bay’s many active construction sites, and is also in the exact vicinity which was used by hundreds of spectators a few weeks ago, when the locality had its turn hosting the International Fireworks Festival.
The San Pawl il-Baħar Local Council removed these instruments after consulting the relevant authorities – and will hopefully also remove the potentially dangerous metal pylons which once supported those instruments.
When building and maintaining public spaces, it is important to consider the needs and comfort of all residents, particularly those who are vulnerable.
Despite having removed xylophones in this area, they will hopefully not be going to waste, as “the local council intends to make use of these instruments in a different way.”
Do you think these instruments should have been removed?
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