The present situation in the St Paul’s Bay area, an ex tourist zone is a very serious one. How can one classify the area as a major Tourist Class A zone when there are hardly any tourists around and so many hotels being demolished? One can also forget about any trade coming to the area over the festive season from the local community, as there was no Christmas atmosphere at all. All approaches to St Paul’s Bay where not decorated like all the roundabouts in the rest of the Maltese Islands. In the coming months the St Paul’s Bay Bars and Restaurants Association will be working on these and other issues with the local council and authorities.

The no smoking in bars and clubs has brought about a loss of business. The new entertainment legislation is another nail in the coffin.

Over 15,000 residents live and work in this area, besides all the workers in the numerous businesses. These same businesses have invested here and help generate money for the Maltese economy. Do we not count like the rest of the residents of the Maltese Islands? Comments from locals and tourists alike are the same, “there is no reason for us to visit St Paul’s Bay”.

St Paul’s Bay is on a downward slide. The majority of establishments and shops are closed by 5pm, as they have no trade. Anyone can see this just by driving through Bugibba and Qawra at any time of the day or night. The future looks bleak as the summer trade alone is not enough to sustain businesses and jobs in this area.