Vittoriosa mayor John Boxall has asked Transport Malta to declare an official swimming zone in an area popular with bathers, which has been taken up by boats berthed illegally.

In the letter, seen by The Malta Independent, Mr Boxall said the request was being made in light of the many buoys that had been placed in the area without a permit, taking up space used by residents of Vittoriosa and other parts of Cottonera who swim there. The area in question is situated on the Kalkara side of Vittoriosa.

“Apart from this, many boat owners pass through the area without showing any form of caution or respect towards swimmers,” Mr Boxall said. He requested berths to be installed in the area designating it as a swimming zone. Mr Boxall said the council was hopeful that Transport Malta’s reply would be positive.