St. Julian’s mayor Albert Buttigieg early on Thursday morning put up signs objecting the Captain Morgan expansion in Balluta bay stating that Balluta Bay is not fit for use as a commercial port.

Buttigieg was acting on behalf of the St. Julian’s local council as well as a number of NGO’s who are objecting the “shameful decision” taken by the Planning Authority.

“Balluta Bay is not fit for a catamaran 33 meters in size to enter 22 times a day” Buttigieg said while referring to the expansion project which would close off the bay to the public.

“This bay is not only for private use but for everyone to enjoy”, as stated by a joint statement from the St. Julian’s local council and the NGO’s objecting this development.

The expansion was applied for by Fortina who own Captain Morgan and the expansion was listed as amendments to the original approved plans. Since the changes are listed under amendments, “Fortina are avoiding the normal planning process while also depriving the public from the right to object these amendments” the joint statement said.