I refer to report by Erika Brincat (TMID, 1 February) regarding the meeting between the Marsascala Shop Owners Association and Alternattiva Demokratika.

The report does not show a faithful picture of the discussions at the meeting.

AD has clearly said that it is not against the yacht marina a priori, but that it wants to see a democratic process whereby all the interested parties are involved and all the necessary studies are made. The AD also said that nothing can be excluded a priori. The report gives a different impression.

Furthermore, the main problems identified by the association and mentioned in the meeting were the parking issue and the traffic management system. The association is in favour of the part pedestrianisation, given the other concerns are addressed.

A yacht marina in Marsascala, if done in a properly planned manner, may be of benefit to the residents, to the environment as well as to the business community. The association is in discussion with various parties to ensure that all are involved, and that all concerns and issues are addressed in a feasible way. It must also be reminded that a substantial part of business owners in Marsascala are residents themselves and therefore it is in their interest that this locality develops in a sustainable manner with respect towards environment and residents.

The quality of life in Marsascala may be improved substantially if there is a well planned development.

Reuben Buttigieg

Marsascala Shop Owners Association