The Malta Interior Designers Association and its members have collectively decided to not participate in the EOI for the Valletta Market Stall Design, the association said in a letter to Economy Minister Chris Cardona.

The association agrees with the opinions expressed this past week by the various stakeholders and industry professionals who believe the proposed location of the market is not suitable and out of context with the new entrance into Valletta, the association said.

Considering the number and size of stalls required, MIDA feels that efforts to limit the market to one side of Ordinance Street, avoiding the area directly in between the opera house and new parliament, would result in a compromise which would be to the detriment of both the hawkers and Valletta in general. This is undesirable as both sides must reach a positive outcome which would benefit all.

MIDA believes its arguments would not be consistent if it took this position whilst at the same time its members submitted designs for new stalls.

The association finally urged the government to reconsider the proposed location.