An application for a “dismountable/mobile kiosk” right next to the Mosta Rotunda (marked in a yellow circle on photos) has rattled residents and the town mayor will be asking the council to oppose the proposed development.

The applicant, Martin Vella, wants to erect the mobile kiosk on Pjazza Rotunda, which sits between the church parvis and a public car park.

But the plan has irked residents, especially festa enthusiasts, who have questioned whether a kiosk in the area would compromise the town’s proud ground fireworks tradition. The ‘ġigġifogu’ show is held in the car park, just a few metres away from the proposed kiosk.

Residents also fear that, if the kiosk were to be given the Planning Authority’s green light, the area could also be taken up by tables and chairs.

Mayor Edwin Vassallo said in a Facebook post that he was against any form of kiosk in the square. “I will be asking the council to show the PA that we do not agree with this. I am also asking all residents to show their disapproval. The pjazza is a public space.”

Mr Vassallo said it seemed that government policy to remove kiosks from open spaces did not apply for Mosta. “It seems that the Lands Department might have already given its approval if it has already come to this. If this is the case then this is not right.”