For a long time, the Government ignored the concerns of the Gozitans regarding the situation with tables and chairs and the accessibility issues in St George's Square in Victoria, Gozo, the Nationalist Oarty said Friday. Now, it has proposed a master plan for the square, yet once again, it has failed to listen to the worries of the residents, putting forward the plan without first consulting the local community.

Not only that, but this Masterplan will not resolve existing problems. Instead, it will exacerbate them, the PN said.

Ironically, the Masterplan was presented by the Lands Authority, the authority that is supposedly responsible for managing public land in the best interest of the public. On the other hand, even in this case, the Planning Authority, which is meant to be the authority responsible for land use planning, has remained silent

Despite a past public protest and the Government's promise of serious consultation, its attitude in this matter remains unchanged: it continues to impose decisions without involving those affected.

As a result, in recent days, the St George's Parish has expressed serious concerns about the new plan, stressing that rather than addressing the problems, it will aggravate them, the PN said.

This is because the plan appears to further limit the use of the square and create practical difficulties for those who use it daily. Among the major issues raised is that hearses, wedding cars, and even emergency vehicles such as ambulances - should the need arise - will now face greater difficulties accessing the square. This shows a complete lack of respect and consideration for the needs of families involved in such sensitive occasions, particularly funerals. Worse still, roads that are currently accessible in such circumstances, albeit with difficulty, are now set to become pedestrian zones under the proposed plan.

Once again, the Government is ignoring the voice of the community and pushing forward a plan that does not reflect the needs of the people. St George's Square does not belong only to the parishioners, it is also a historic and cultural site that brings together both Gozitans and Maltese alike. The square should remain open and accessible to everyone, and the Government must stop persisting with decisions made without genuine consultation.

A serious and transparent discussion should take place regarding the future of St George's Square, one that respects all those who use it and consider it part of their identity. Shop owners must also be involved in the discussion to ensure that a necessary balance is reached.

The PN called  on the Government to listen to all stakeholders, carry out meaningful consultations, and ensure a balance between the rights of business owners, the preservation of public spaces, and the needs of the community.