The Valletta Local Council is “seriously worried” about the potential removal of the localities residents’ parking scheme.

In a statement, the Council made reference to transport minister Joe Mizzi’s comment about removing residents’ parking schemes in a number of localities, including Valletta.

“This goes against the positive talks that the Council has with Mr Mizzi on 30 May and with top officials at Transport Malta on 24 July, where the problems relating to transport and parking in Valletta were discussed,” the Council today said.

“During these meetings agreement was reached and assurances given that the Council will collaborate in order for studies, as well as consultations to be undertaken in order for the situation to improve. Valletta Mayor Alexei Dingli also alerted Prime Minister Joseph Muscat to the matter during a Cabinet meeting held in Marsaxlokk on 9 July,” the statement said.

According to the Local Council, at no point during the Cabinet meeting did the government indicate that the reserved parking spaces for residents in Valletta were going to be removed.

“The Valletta Local Council understands the difficulties faced by the thousands of visitors to the capital city, as well as the business community, and for this reason it is going to seek the best solution without detracting from the rights of residents to have reserved parking spaces,” the council promised.