Practically every route in Sliema is blocked off to traffic. Yesterday, the main road going round the Coast, leading from Balluta to the Peace gardens was only accepting traffic going in one direction. Why? Simple. A crane blocking the road. As a result, people were turning up through the street just beyond the Plaza Hotel. But then, wait for it, as soon as you turn in, there is no access to Mrabat Street. What happens? Bedlam, gridlock and frayed tempers. The tiny streets are just choked with traffic as everything from trucks to buses and personal vehicles all attempt to get out of the place. It is just ridiculous. What should be a five minute ride turns into a 50-minute nightmare. The council should be involved and the matter should be sorted out. How can so many permits be issued at one go? Sort it out. And by sort it out, I do not mean two wardens stood near a crane doing absolutely nothing of use.

Owen Jones

Sliema