From Mr R Abela

I write in support of the action being taken by Arthur Busuttil of Mosta as described in his letter “Reserved …for tables and chairs, not cars” (TMIS, 12 June).

I have a summer residence in Triq il Gandoffli corner with Triq l-lsponoz, Bugibba, so I can fully understand the frustrations suffered by Mr Busuttil. The rampant and recurrent abuses perpetrated by the commercial establishments in the area are causing us residents considerable discomfort, which, if continue unchecked, could lead to serious trouble between residents and establishment owners.

Last summer we had too many sleepless nights and this year we are determined that this will not happen again. Apart from Rookies Bar, The Heritage Pub is another contributor to the significant noise with blaring music played during the “silent hours” after midnight. This pub is also, like Rookies Bar, placing tables and chairs in parking spaces, taking up the few precious parking slots left in the area. Other establishments also take up valuable street space by illegally placing advertising placards.

Like Mr Busuttil, I insist with the St Paul’s Bay local council to abandon any ideas of extending the pavement in front of these two establishments. We cannot possibly permit that for the umpteenth time commercial driven interest prevail over the simple wishes of ordinary residents. I am also informed that pavement extensions carried out in front of other establishments in other areas around Bugibba are not even covered by MHPA permits.

Finally, I ask the Superintendent of the Qawra Police to take reasonable preventive steps to ensure that order and public peace are kept in this zone during the coming months in order to avoid unpleasant incidents.

R. Abela

BIRKIRKARA