I wish to express my disappointment at the decision taken by Transport Malta to re-introduce parking spaces in the upper part of St Elias Street in St Julian’s.

The street in question is very narrow – together with Carmel Street and St Angelo Street, these are the few remaining streets in St Julian’s forming part of the village core. Until a few weeks ago, when cars used to park at the upper end of the street, it was practically impossible for an ambulance to pass through this road with the consequence of placing the lives of those who need this service in serious danger. Besides, cars trying to drive down through the street and others that were parked were being constantly scratched and damaged. There were also several residents who had to endure the frustration of having the facades of their houses constantly damaged by vehicles that had to squeeze through the limited space to pass through this narrow street. There were also instances were cars were parked haphazardly making it impossible to drive down the road without the risk of having the car or mirror damaged.   

Last summer, the St Julian’s local council recognised these serious problems and very rightly decided that the upper part of the street become a 'no parking' zone. The local council fully understood that it was practically impossible for an ambulance, fire engine and other heavy vehicles to pass through this street. I and other residents (particularly those who have long been living in this street and who lived this daily saga) applauded the local council's actions. It is true that a number of parking spaces were lost but safety comes before the comfort of having one’s car parked behind one’s door.

Last week, to the surprise and anger of many residents in this street, the parking spaces were back in their original state. The yellow lines were painted white thus allowing vehicles to be parked. Residents are now re-living the nightmare of driving down this street, especially the upper part of the street. 

As far as I can gather, the local council was not even aware of this development. I understand that the decision was taken by Transport Malta. I question the rationale behind this rushed decision and ask whether Transport Malta will assume full responsibility for any damages we residents may incur as a consequence of their decision. I also ask Transport Malta whether it carried out any investigations / studies to check whether ambulances, fire engines or other heavy vehicles can access this very narrow street before deciding to re-introduce this area as a parking zone.

I urge Transport Malta to reconsider its decision and respect the action taken by the St. Julian’s local council to have the upper part of the street as a ‘no parking’ zone – a step in the right direction taken in the interests and safety of us residents.

All residents have an important say in this matter and as such we expect to be fully consulted.

Chris J. Delicata

ST JULIAN’S